What is a workers' compensation settlement?

A workers’ compensation settlement is a voluntary agreement between an employee and their employer in which the employee is paid an amount of money in exchange for releasing the employer from further liability related to the employee’s injury. These settlements occur when the employer and employee can agree on a fair and reasonable amount for the employee to receive in exchange for releasing the employer from further liability for the injury, and the employee waives their right to further legal action against the employer. In Washington, workers’ compensation settlements must be approved by the Department of Labor and Industries, and both parties must keep a written record of the agreement. Settlements are common in workers’ compensation cases because they can resolve a case quickly and efficiently, without the need for lengthy court proceedings. Generally, employers are willing to settle cases quickly to avoid a prolonged case and costly litigation. It is important to keep in mind that workers’ compensation settlements will not always cover the employee’s entire medical bill or any lost wages that would have been paid during the period of injury. Also, workers’ compensation settlements usually prevent the employee from bringing further legal action against the employer, so if the injury was due to the employer’s negligence, additional legal action may be necessary to obtain additional compensation. Before agreeing to a settlement, employees should speak with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer to ensure they are being offered a fair and reasonable settlement.

Related FAQs

What are the benefits of using an attorney to help with my workers' compensation claim?
What can I do if my employer retaliates against me for filing a workers' compensation claim?
What if I don't agree with the amount of my workers' compensation award?
Are certain types of injuries excluded from workers' compensation coverage?
Does workers' compensation cover pre-existing conditions?
What is considered a compensable injury?
What is the difference between total disability and partial disability?
Can I receive workers' compensation benefits for an accident that occurred off-site?
When can I begin receiving workers' compensation benefits?
What is a Third-Party Claim?

What is a workers' compensation settlement?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts