Sustaining an injury on the job can be a difficult and stressful situation that can significantly disrupt your life. In addition to managing the physical pain and recovery process, you have extra medical expenses and may need to take time off work. This adds financial strain to an already stressful situation.

After a workplace injury, the top priority is recovery, which can be a lengthy process without a clear timeline. Since you may not be able to work during your recovery, it’s important to know what your case may be worth. Compensation is largely determined by the type and severity of your injury and it’s impossible to provide an exact amount. However, it helps to understand how worker comp cases are calculated and what may be covered under the law.

Let’s look at what may be covered, and how workers’ comp cases are calculated in Missouri.

What goes into calculating workers' comp claims?

Calculating the worth of a workers' comp claim is a complex process that requires consideration of various factors. One crucial factor is the type and severity of the injury, as well as any related disability benefits. Depending on the circumstances, temporary, permanent, partial, or total disability may apply.

In addition, medical expenses can play a significant role in determining the value of a claim. This includes medical care, rehabilitative services, prescription costs, and necessary medical supplies. Home or vehicle modifications may also be considered if needed to accommodate your injury.

Since there are many moving parts involved in a workers' comp claim, it's important to seek the advice of an experienced legal professional to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Methods for Calculating Workers' Comp Benefits

There are various methods for calculating workers' comp payments, which can result in different compensation amounts. Insurance companies typically do not disclose the method used for calculating benefits, so it's essential to work with a workers' comp attorney to maximize your compensation potential.

Some factors that may be used in the calculation of your workers' comp benefits include your average weekly wage, which is based on your income in the 13 weeks prior to the incident. Additionally, two-thirds of your average weekly wage may be used as a benchmark. However, other variables may also be considered when determining the final workers' comp payment.

Disability benefits may also factor into the calculation of your claim. Temporary total disability benefits may apply if your injury prevents you from working for three or more days. Once you are medically cleared to return to work, these benefits will stop. Permanent partial disability payments are handled differently, based on the specific value assigned to body parts according to the law. Medical experts will assess the percentage of disability you have, which can be a contentious issue in workers' comp cases.

Navigating the workers' comp claim process can be overwhelming, and it's important to seek legal assistance to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Attempting to navigate the system alone or accepting an offer from an insurance company without proper legal guidance may result in less favorable outcomes.

Learn more about calculating workers’ comp claims here. And, if you or someone you know has been injured on the job and need assistance, contact us for a free, no obligation consultation.