How Long Does a Workers’ Comp Case Take to Settle?

What is the average time to settle a workers’ comp case?

Although there are several factors that can affect this time frame, the average amount of time it takes to reach a workers’ comp settlement is 12-18 months. During the claims process, the workers’ compensation insurer can offer a settlement that is meant to be a fair amount based on injuries and expected medical costs.

What affects the time it takes to reach a workers’ compensation settlement?

The factors that can impact how long it takes to settle a workers’ compensation claim include:

• Severity of injuries
• Predictability of medical expenses
• If the injured worker has reached maximum medical improvement (MMI)
• The circumstances that lead to the incident
• Whether there are factual disputes
• If the claim was denied
• The willingness of both parties to compromise on the settlement amount

A WC case will usually settle quickly if the injury is minor, the treatment is very clear, and the outcome is predictable. In these cases, the insurance company can calculate how much compensation the injured worker deserves and will offer a settlement based on that amount. The more complex the claim, the longer it will take to settle.

However, it’s important to know that you don’t have to accept the initial settlement offer if it doesn’t accurately reflect your losses. Once you agree to a lump sum settlement, your workers’ comp claim will be closed. Contact an experienced workers’ comp attorney to learn more about your rights and what you can do to get the maximum benefits for your work-related injury or illness.

What are the steps and time limits to file a workers’ comp claim?

Here are the steps involved in filing workers’ comp claims and the time limits to complete each step:

Report the Incident

After being injured on the job, the first step is to fill out a notice of injury or occupational disease (C-1 form) and return it to your employer. You have seven days from the accident to complete this report and provide it to the employer. Once received, your employer is required to keep the completed form on record for three years.

Verify Injury With a Treating Physician

An injured worker will need to see a treating physician to complete a C-4 form (Employee’s Claim for Compensation/Report of Initial Treatment). This form confirms the injury and that the employee cannot return to work for five consecutive days or more, or at least five days in a 20-day period.

Because the C-4 form is necessary for your employer and the insurance company to take the next steps, your physician must sign and date the form within 90 days of the injury. Completing and filing this form is what starts your official WC claim. (NRS 616C.020)

The Employer Files an Insurance Claim

Your employer will complete a C-3 form and file it with their WC insurance provider. They must file it within six working days of receiving a C-4 form from the employee.

Verification of Wages

Employers will also need to complete a D-8 form, which confirms the wage history of the injured worker. The employer must file this form with the insurance provider within six working days of receiving the employee’s C-4 form.

Accept or Deny Claim

After the insurance company is notified of the accident and receives the appropriate forms, it has 30 days to either accept or deny the claim. If the claim is accepted, payments should begin right away. However, if the claim is denied, there is an appeal process that follows. (NRS 616C.065)

The Workers’ Comp Claim Is Closed

When injured employees reach their maximum medical improvement, it means they have recovered as much as possible from the injury. At this point, the insurance provider may offer a settlement to close the claim. For those with Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) or Permanent Total Disability (PTD), you can collect your settlement in a lump sum or in periodic payments.

Are there different types of workers’ comp settlements?

In general, there are two ways to settle a workers’ compensation claim:

• Stipulated Award – A stipulation and award settlement means your employer’s insurer agrees to cover future medical expenses related to your injury—even if it happens to be more than initially expected.
• Compromise and Release – A compromise and release settlement involves a lump sum offered by the insurance company. This amount is meant to compensate for future medical costs, future disability payments, and other expenses the insurer should cover. The injured worker can choose to accept this in a single payment or in a structured settlement payout over time.

Speak With a Workers’ Compensation Attorney

If you’re unsure of how to file a workers’ compensation claim or the insurance company is offering less than you deserve, our team can help. Contact our personal injury lawyers who specialize in workers’ compensation cases to schedule a free consultation today. We can offer legal advice and help you understand your rights as an employee.