Settling a workman's comp comp claim for a hand injury?

I injured my hand last year while working as a commercial cabinet installer, and have recieved my first settlement offer from the insurance company. The nature of the injury was somewhat severe, as I sliced open the entire top of my left hand with a power saw, severing all nerves and tendons. I have been put on permanent partial disability from my doctor, and have never returned to my employer, who has since started another business. The insurance company has come forth with a settlement offer, and I am looking for anyone with a similar history who may be able to impart some worthwhile advice. I have spoken to, but not secured an attorney as of yet. Thanks!

This is not a self-insured claim.

Is this a self-insured claim or are you dealing with the department of labor and industries? I am not sure what state Rob G. lives in, or what state you live in, but in Washington state there is no coverage of future medical bills. Once you accept the ppd award - permanent partial disability - your claim is closed. If your condition worsens you can apply to reopen after that, but it's very very difficult to reopen a claim. your doctor will review the "offer" and if they've given you an appropriate percentage of impairment, then he'll agree to the impairment rating and you'll be paid and the claim will close! You have 60 days to protest the closure of the claim once you receive the check and the closing order! An attorney will take up to 30% of your award in this state! Did you go to L&I doctors for an exam or did your doctor provide the impairment rating that the dept is basing the "offer" on?

You should have gotten an attorney ASAP when the accident occured. Get an attorney who specalizes in workers comp cases and let him sort all of this out for you. My girlfriend is taking workers comp to court now over her case.

never take the first offer! it is always the lowest they will go. you also have to look at if you're permanently disabled too...medicare will not cover your injury because it was work related. you must look at getting a supplemental income to cover your hand for the rest of your life...which just means that it has to be separate from your actual settlement.

you don't have to hire an attorney, but it can sometimes be better to make sure you get all the coverage you deserve!

I worked in the workers compensation industry until about six months ago. An attorney is the ONLY way to go. Also keep in mind that in most states there are two distinct parts to a WC claim. There is medical and indemnity. They can typically be settled independently ie. you get lump sum for you future lost wages (indemnity) but they continue to pay all future medical costs.