Should I Accept My First Workers’ Compensation Offer in Arizona?

In Arizona, the workers’ compensation program helps pay for medical costs and lost income in the event of an on-the-job injury. It can be challenging to navigate this system. These challenges can leave you wondering, “Should I accept my first workers’ compensation offer in Arizona?” Even though you may be tempted to accept the first offer and move on, you should carefully assess whether it fits your needs and fairly compensates you for your injuries.

Arizona’s Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ compensation in Arizona is a no-fault system, which means that if you were hurt while working, you are entitled to benefits even if you weren’t at fault for the accident. Usually, these benefits pay for hospital bills, missed income, and occasionally settlements for lifelong disabilities. The goal is to offer a stable income stream while you heal and eventually go back to work.

The First Offer: What to Anticipate

Most likely, the insurance provider for your job will make the first offer you receive. However, insurance firms are enterprises with the objective of reducing expenses. The initial offer might pay for some of your missed income and immediate medical costs, but it might not account for the entire amount of your injuries, potential long-term care requirements, or the chance of permanent impairment.

When you’re coping with the anxiety of an injury and the possible loss of money, this offer might seem reasonable. However, it’s crucial to understand that the initial offer is frequently only the beginning of the bargaining process and does not indicate what you are ultimately entitled to.

Factors To Consider When Accepting an Offer

Sometimes, it takes time to fully assess the depth of an injury. A seemingly minor injury has the potential to worsen and necessitate continuous care. You might not be able to get more money if you accept the initial offer and then find out you need more medical attention later. Therefore, you will want to take a few things into consideration, including:

• Medical assessments. A thorough medical evaluation is essential before accepting any offer. This guarantees that all your wounds are registered and that any potential additional medical requirements are noted.
• Future employment and wage losses. Should your injuries impede your ability to resume your prior role or work at all, the offer ought to account for this reduction in earning potential. There are situations where the initial offer may not take into consideration the possible long-term effects on your capacity to work.
• Permanent disability. You can be eligible for further payments if your injury leaves you permanently disabled. If you accept the original offer, you could not get the full compensation you’re entitled to since it might not take these factors into consideration. Your life can be significantly altered by a lifelong handicap, so it’s important to make sure the compensation is commensurate with the severity of your illness.
• Legal guidance. Possibly the most important step is this one. A workers’ compensation lawyer can examine the offer, assess its fairness considering your unique situation, and provide you advice on whether to accept or seek a higher payment. They can also represent your interests in talks with the insurance provider and assist you in navigating the system’s intricacies.

These are just a few of the considerations that you should consider when deciding whether to accept a workers’ compensation offer.

The Dangers of Saying Yes to the First Offer

Although it could seem like the simplest method to end the matter, accepting the first offer carries some risk. Once you accept a settlement, you lose the ability to pursue further damages for your injuries. You won’t be able to ask for more money if your condition gets worse or if you need further medical care. Later, you might have to pay a large amount of money out of pocket because of this.

The original offer could not accurately represent the amount of money to which Arizona law entitles you. You run the danger of taking less than you deserve if you don’t fully grasp your rights and the worth of your claim.

It may be wise to accept the initial offer in some circumstances. For example, it can make sense to settle quickly if your injury is minimal, you have fully healed, and the offer includes payment for all of your medical bills and missed wages. But you should only take this action after giving it some serious thought and after speaking with a workers’ compensation attorney.

FAQs

Should I Accept the First Compensation Offer?

It’s usually not recommended to take the first workers’ compensation offer you receive. It’s possible that initial offers won’t cover all your long-term demands, missed income, or medical costs. Speak with a workers’ compensation lawyer to make sure you get just compensation that accurately represents the severity of your injury and how it has affected your life.

What Is the Waiting Period For Workers’ Compensation in Arizona?

In Arizona, you have to wait seven days before you can get workers’ compensation payments. The first seven days you can’t work because of your injury won’t count toward your disability payments unless you can’t work for more than 14 days. Then you will receive pay for the time you had to wait during this period.

How Does Workers’ Compensation Pay in Arizona?

In Arizona, workers’ compensation benefits normally cover a percentage of your average monthly salary up to a maximum set by the state. Expenses for medical care and missed income are covered while recovering. If you have a permanent disability, you can be eligible for further compensation depending on how severe your condition is and how it affects your capacity to work.

Does My Employer Have to Hold My Job While On Workers’ Comp in Arizona?

Employers are not required by Arizona law to keep you employed while you receive workers’ compensation. On the other hand, qualified workers may take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave with job security under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). It’s crucial to review applicable state and federal legislation and speak with your employer about your circumstances.

Arizona Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Workers’ compensation claims can be filled with challenges and raise many questions. At Arizona Injury Law Group, we have the answers you need to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to find out more about your potential workers’ compensation claim.