Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Attorneys: The Process for Receiving a Settlement
Serving injured workers in York, Lancaster, Harrisburg, Hanover, and Gettysburg
Suffering a work-related injury can be overwhelming. You’re not only dealing with pain and medical treatments but also the stress of lost wages and uncertainty about your future. If you’re receiving workers’ compensation benefits in Pennsylvania, you may have the option to settle your claim for a lump sum payout. But is a settlement the right choice for you? Understanding how workers’ compensation settlements work—and what they mean for your future—is crucial before making a decision.
At KBG Injury Law, we’ve helped injured workers in York, Lancaster, Harrisburg, Hanover, and Gettysburg handle the workers’ compensation system. Our experienced attorneys know that every case is unique, and what works for one worker may not be the best option for another. If you’re considering settling your claim, keep reading to learn what to expect and how to recover the compensation you deserve.
How can we help?
- What is a worker’s compensation settlement?
- How do I know if I qualify for a settlement?
- How long does it take to get a workers’ compensation settlement in Pennsylvania?
- Should I accept the insurance company’s first offer?
- What happens if I settle my workers’ compensation claim?
- Will I have to go to court to settle my case?
- What are the risks of settling my workers’ compensation claim?
- How can your workers’ comp attorneys help me settle my workers’ compensation claim?
- Do you have a workers’ compensation lawyer near me?
What is a workers’ compensation settlement?
A workers’ compensation settlement is an agreement between an injured worker and their employer’s insurance company. Instead of receiving weekly wage loss benefits or ongoing medical payments, you get a lump sum or structured payout to resolve your claim.
Some people prefer a settlement because it provides financial certainty, while others may choose to keep their benefits open if they need continued medical care. Every case is different, and our experienced workers' compensation attorney can help you decide if settling is the right option.
How do I know if I qualify for a settlement?
If you were injured on the job in Pennsylvania and are receiving workers' compensation benefits, you may qualify for a settlement. However, not all cases are settled. A settlement usually happens when:
- The insurance company wants to close your claim.
- You and your attorney believe the settlement offer is fair.
- You no longer need ongoing medical treatment, or you prefer to manage future medical costs on your own.
Insurance companies often offer settlements because it saves them money in the long run. But that doesn’t mean their first offer will be fair. That’s why working with a skilled workers' compensation lawyer is so important.
How long does it take to get a workers’ compensation settlement in Pennsylvania?
The timeline for reaching a settlement can vary. Some cases settle in a few months, while others take a year or more. The timing depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injury.
- Whether you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI).
- The complexity of your case.
- How willing the insurance company is to negotiate.
Once a settlement is agreed upon, it can take about four to eight weeks to receive the funds. However, delays can happen if there are legal disputes or court approvals involved.
The value of your settlement depends on multiple factors, including:
- Your medical expenses, including past, present, and estimated future costs.
- Your lost wages, meaning how much income you’ve lost and may continue to lose.
- Your ability to return to work, and if your injury prevents you from working in the same job or any job.
- The severity of your injury, as permanent injuries typically result in higher settlements.
- Future medical needs, for example, if you require surgery, therapy, or long-term treatment.
Because each case is unique, it’s important to have an attorney evaluate your situation before accepting any offer.
Should I accept the insurance company’s first offer?
In most cases, no. The insurance company’s first offer is often lower than what you deserve. Their goal is to settle your claim for as little as possible. Before accepting any settlement, consult with the workers’ compensation attorneys at KBG Injury Law, who can review the offer and negotiate for a fairer amount.
What happens if I settle my workers’ compensation claim?
When you settle, you typically agree to close your claim in exchange for a lump sum or structured payments. This means:
- You will no longer receive weekly wage loss benefits.
- You may or may not give up the right to future medical payments (depending on the terms of the settlement).
- You cannot reopen your case later, even if your condition worsens.
Because settlements are final, it’s very important to understand what you’re agreeing to before signing.
Will I have to go to court to settle my case?
Most settlements are negotiated outside of court. However, the state of Pennsylvania requires a judge to review and approve all workers' compensation settlements to ensure they are fair to the injured worker. In many cases, you’ll attend a brief hearing where the judge confirms you understand the terms of the settlement before approving it.
What are the risks of settling my workers’ compensation claim?
While a settlement can provide financial relief, it also comes with risks, including the following:
- Giving up your right to future benefits.
- Possibly underestimating future medical costs.
- Impacting your eligibility for other benefits.
That’s why it’s important to carefully evaluate your case with a lawyer before agreeing to a settlement.
How can your workers’ comp attorneys help me settle my workers’ compensation claim?
Technically, you don’t need an attorney for your workers’ compensation case — but it’s highly recommended. Insurance companies have experienced adjusters and attorneys working to minimize payouts. Without a knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer, you could end up settling for far less than you deserve.
At KBG Injury Law, we:
- Review settlement offers to ensure they are fair.
- Negotiate for the best possible outcome.
- Advise you on your legal rights and options.
Do you have a workers’ compensation lawyer near me?
You can find KBG Injury Law at 110 North George Street, in the heart of York, PA. Reach out to us to schedule a consultation at one of our convenient locations.
Our reliable workers’ compensation attorneys are fighting for you
At KBG Injury Law, our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys have helped countless injured workers in York, Lancaster, Harrisburg, Hanover, and Gettysburg. We understand the complexities of workers’ comp law and fight to protect your rights. If you're considering a settlement, contact us for a free consultation. We’re here to help you determine whether a settlement is in your best interest and to fight for you to receive the compensation you deserve. Call our offices or fill out our contact form to schedule your consultation today. We help individuals and families throughout South Central Pennsylvania.
Workers Compensation FAQs