Well guys here is the story. In April I was hurt at work and had to have a large cist removed from my wrist. During rehab I noticed another large bump growing on top of my hand. It turned out that I needed another surgery. So in July I had my second surgery. Then two weeks into rehab something snapped in my forearm making it impossible for me to lift three of my fingers. About four days later I could lift them again. I passed the test to return to work. I was off work for 6 months with full pay. But here is my question the company will offer me a one time lump sum after the figger out how much use of the hand I have lost. Should I take this or try and sue for a life time payment every month. People have told me if I sue and win I will have to repay all doctor bills and the lawyer. And may end up with less money. What should I do if anyone could help me it will be greatly appericated.

 

Questions:

Immediately after the injury did you go to the hospital?

Were workman's comp forms signed by both the
company and you?

Were you paid workman's comp while recuperating?

Has the company ever admitted the injury was caused by thier negligence?

 

I think the ultimate question is...what is it worth to you? Are you satisfied with the way the company has been handling things regarding your injury? Does the amuont of money they are offering and the services they have covered compensate for what you've had to go through? Is the additional amount of money you might gain through a lawsuit worth the risk of losing what they are currently offering?

None of these are loaded questions...they are just offered for contemplation.

 

I was on workmans comp the only time I was off work. The company has a hostipal on base who told me not lift or anything. I went to a outside doc to get a second opinion and he took me off work. They never once disputed the claims and payed everything with no problem. They if called the house a day or two after the surgery to see how things were going and if I was doing ok. But I still have pains in my forearm and hand. So that is why I don't know if I should do it or not.

 

I ususally get paid for finance questions but here goes. As long as you feel the lump sum is reflective of your pain and suffering take it. You can invest that money yourself and control how quickly it grows. This can be done in several ways IRA, Mutual fund, or Annuity. That money is always yours. You can control it and use it when ever you want. when starting with a larger lump sum you can build wealth at a much faster rate. Whatever monthly payment you accept today may not be much in 15 years. Any finacial planner will tell you the same.