In the fall of 2017, our firm represented a 64-year-old client who suffered a fractured femur while in the course and scope of his employment in the spring of 2017. The injury required immediate surgery involving the fixation of screws to secure the broken bone. When our client first came to us, he was receiving wage loss and medical benefits, but he was concerned that the insurance company was taking advantage of him. The office assisted him in facilitating a functional capacity evaluation which determined that he was unable to return to his pre-injury employment. After a brief period of light duty employment, we successfully convinced the insurance company to reinstate his full benefits without litigation. Ultimately a resolution was negotiated whereby the client received a settlement of $150,000.00 which represented nearly four years of benefits paid in a lump sum.
Tilting the Scales in Your Favor
The moment any complexity arises in your case or you feel uncomfortable working directly with your employer and the insurance company, you should call an attorney. In addition to making sure all forms are properly completed and meet the assigned deadlines, an attorney gives you the confidence you need to support your case. They know how to gather the evidence needed, negotiate effectively and draft a proper settlement agreement to avoid unanticipated consequences.
If you are in doubt about your ability to handle your own case, call us for a free consultation.