How Many Pieces Go Into a Settlement?

Question: How many pieces are involved in a workers' compensation settlement? Answer: Probably more than you think. The more issues there are in a negotiation, the greater the opportunity for give and take. This adds flexibility for parties to shape a settlement acceptable to all. Trading across issues in negotiation is called "logrolling." Every case has its own unique issues. Here is a partial list, some obvious, some I have seen people miss. Income issues Disability percentage, including whether the disability is caused by an industrial injury Apportionment Applicable date of injury Past payments: When were permanent disability payments supposed to start? Was the right rate used? Were past payments properly characterized as permanent disability (PD), or should they have been temporary disability (TD)? Is there a TD overpayment? If life pension payments will be due, when should they start? Average weekly wage: Have you taken into account overtime and the value of non-cash compensation? Ability to perform future work Return-to-work issues: Will the employer provide modified work? What about training? Check California law about computer purchases. Liens Penalties Medical issues What are the accepted body parts? What expenses are reasonable and necessary? This can include issues about support services. What is the appropriate medical specialty? Is the treatment the applicant wants compensable? Is the applicant's overall medical condition likely to shorten life expectancy?