If you are receiving workers’ compensation benefits for a serious workplace injury, you might be wondering about your right to receive ongoing medical treatment. You are actually entitled to receive future medical benefits for as long as treatment is needed or until you reach maximum medical improvement. In fact, future medical treatment is among one of the most vital benefits that are covered by workers’ compensation insurance. If you were to accept liability for your medical care, however, it would cease to be the responsibility of your employer’s insurance company to provide these benefits. Make sure that, prior to accepting any type of settlement agreement, you speak with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. The last thing you want to do is give up your right to future medical care unless you are certain that you are being adequately compensated.
Types of Workers’ Compensation Settlements
In a workers’ compensation claim, there are three methods for settling. The first is stipulation, which is an agreement for permanent disability, receiving disability bi-weekly payments, and future medical treatment for specific body parts. Compromise and release allows for the total settlement value of a workers’ compensation case to be negotiated by your attorney and is paid in a single lump sum to you. Additionally, you could also go to trial and, if you win, the award would be paid off over time, much like the stipulated settlement.
Keep in mind that it is important for you to consider what benefits should be included as part of your settlement before you decide to accept anything that is offered or proposed to you. If you agree to waive future medical care, make sure the settlement agreement includes all unpaid bills for medical treatment and the costs for continued treatment.
Regardless of what you choose, never make this important decision until your medical condition has stabilized and you have reached maximum medical improvement.
Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Orange County
At Alvandi Law Group, P.C., our Orange County workers’ compensation attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights of injured workers and ensuring they receive the benefits to which they are entitled. If you suffered a workplace injury, reach out to our legal team today for the knowledgeable and experienced representation you need to obtain the benefits that you rightfully deserve.
Get started on your case today and contact Alvandi Law Group, P.C. at (800) 980-6905 to request your free initial case evaluation.