Debate: Should you settle your workers comp case or fight it all the way to trial?

I got injured at a warehouse in Fresno about 3 years ago, back in July 2021. My lawyer wanted me to settle for $12,000 last month, saying it was a fair deal for my shoulder injury. But my physical therapist told me I'd need surgery down the line, maybe costing way more than that. On the other hand, I hear people waiting 2 or 3 years for a trial date and still ending up with nothing. My buddy settled his case in San Diego for $8,500 and regretted it when his back got worse. So which side do you fall on - grab the quick cash or hold out for a bigger payout at trial? Has anyone else been stuck in that same spot and how did it turn out?

3 comments

3 Comments

gibson.elizabeth11d ago

My cousin had a similar situation with a knee injury in Bakersfield, took the settlement and then that knee popped out on a hike a year later - big regret. Every case is its own animal though, so your mileage may totally vary.

jessicaflores10d ago

Never really thought about it that way, but your cousin's story definitely changed my mind.

grace_knight7010d ago

Take the money and run every time, honestly. Settlements are never enough to cover what actually happens later, and insurance companies count on people gambling on their health. Better to bank the cash and deal with the consequences down the road than end up with nothing.