Workers’ Compensation Settlements in Bakersfield

Whenever someone is injured on the job, they may be entitled to compensation benefits. While this system is designed to operate on a no-fault basis, achieving a reasonable outcome is not always simple. With the help of a dedicated workers’ compensation attorney, settling with the insurer could provide you with the resources you need.

If you have questions about workers’ compensation settlements in Bakersfield, consulting with our attorney could offer valuable answers. Several factors can determine the size of your recovery and the time it takes to resolve your claims. Contact our compassionate workers’ comp attorneys immediately to get started with your case.

Types of Workers’ Compensation Settlements

Not all Bakersfield workers’ compensation settlements are the same. There are two distinct options, and the best choice depends on whether the injured worker may require additional care in the future.

One common complication of workers’ compensation settlements is that they generally bring an end to the opportunity to seek further awards. This can be problematic if the injuries turn out to be more severe than originally thought. That is why it is crucial to understand the differences between compromise and release settlements and stipulations.

Compromise and Release

As the name suggests, a compromise and release involves the worker reaching an agreement with the insurance company and releasing them from any future claims. This officially concludes the case. While the insurer provides a payment to resolve the claim, there is no option to seek additional compensation if the condition worsens.

Stipulations

Unlike a compromise and release, stipulations provide workers with immediate relief while preserving the option to pursue additional medical care in the future. However, this is only possible if the extra treatment is deemed to be reasonable and necessary in the future.

Factors Influencing Settlement Amounts

Several factors can influence the final amount agreed upon in a Bakersfield workers’ compensation settlement. Cases involving severe injuries are often more complex, which can affect the overall value of the claim. While the extent of an injury is a major factor in how a settlement plays out, it is not the only consideration. The cost of medical care also plays an important role in assessing the potential value of a case. Other contributing factors include wage losses, permanent disability, and any disputes between the worker and the insurance company.

How Long Will a Settlement Take?

It is impossible to predict with certainty how long settling these claims will take. Each case is unique, and multiple factors can impact your chances of success. When injuries are relatively minor, settlements are often reached in a matter of months. That is rarely the case with more severe conditions, as it can take multiple years before a resolution is finally reached. Having the support of our Bakersfield attorney could help you avoid delays and get a fair workers’ compensation settlement in a reasonable timeframe.

Talk to an Attorney in Bakersfield About Workers’ Compensation Settlements

If you were injured on the job, you could be entitled to compensation through the workers’ compensation system. Settlements can be reached in these cases, but reaching an agreement is not always guaranteed. Reach out to our attorney promptly to learn more about workers’ compensation settlements in Bakersfield.