Understanding the Average Workers Compensation Settlement for Shoulder Surgery in Georgia

There is no "average" settlement in a shoulder surgery case, because the facts of every case are unique. In our experience, many work injuries where shoulder surgery is reccomended can settle around $60,000. However, some claims settle for more and some settle for less depending on the facts of the case. In some cases, our firm has won settlements greater than $100,000 for a shoulder surgery reccomendation.

Shoulder injuries can be painful and debilitating, significantly impacting your ability to work and perform daily tasks. If you've been injured on the job and require shoulder surgery, you may be wondering what the average workers compensation settlement is in Georgia. While it's difficult to provide a precise figure, this article will help you understand the factors that influence the settlement amount and how to maximize your claim.

Factors Influencing Settlement Amounts

Workers compensation settlements for shoulder surgery in Georgia can vary greatly due to several factors, including:

  • Severity of the injury: More severe injuries generally lead to higher settlement amounts, as they often require more extensive medical treatment and longer recovery times.
  • Medical costs: The cost of surgery, follow-up care, physical therapy, and any necessary medications will be factored into the settlement.
  • Lost wages: Compensation for missed work during recovery is also taken into account when calculating the settlement.
  • Permanent impairment: If your injury results in permanent disability or loss of function, the settlement may be higher to account for the long-term impact on your ability to work and quality of life.
  • Future medical expenses: If your injury is expected to require ongoing care, this will be factored into the settlement amount.

Georgia Workers Compensation Guidelines

In Georgia, workers compensation benefits are governed by state law and provide a framework for calculating settlement amounts. The State Board of Workers' Compensation (SBWC) oversees claims and ensures that both employees and employers are treated fairly.

Under Georgia law, workers compensation benefits include:

  • Medical benefits to cover the cost of treatment and recovery
  • Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits, which provide two-thirds of your average weekly wage if you're unable to work for more than seven days
  • Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits, which are calculated based on the extent of your disability and the applicable compensation rate

Maximizing Your Settlement

To ensure you receive a fair settlement for your shoulder surgery, consider the following tips:

  • Seek medical treatment promptly: Delaying treatment can not only affect your recovery but also make it more difficult to prove the extent of your injury.
  • Report the injury to your employer: Make sure to inform your employer about your injury as soon as possible to start the workers compensation claim process.
  • Gather documentation: Keep thorough records of your medical treatments, expenses, and any correspondence related to your claim.
  • Consult an attorney: An experienced workers compensation attorney can help you navigate the claims process, ensure you receive appropriate benefits, and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.

Understanding the factors that influence workers compensation settlements for shoulder surgery in Georgia is essential to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Keep these considerations in mind as you navigate the claims process and seek a fair settlement.