How long before one settles?

mbondeson · June 2012

We had an employee who was hurt on the job in 2011. We had her on light duty for almost 6 mo's. No improvement. Her dr. Stated she has reached mmi, gone through the physical testing on the "machine". We sat down with her and tried to come up with accommodations that were within the dr's guidelines. We and she could not find an opening she could move in to, due to her restrictions(we are a manufacturing facility.)
it has been 5 months sicne she was terminated. Our adjuster has not heard anything from
the employees lawyer. Does this seem strange? What is the avg time it takes for a wc lawyer to counter offer a settlement offer? We are getting nervous, this could be a huge
settlement, but the silence is very annoying. Any insight will be appreciated.
We are located in alabama.

Thanks,
mark

sonny · June 2012

Our carrier's attorney and ee's attorney would have the ball at this point. We ask that they not settle without our knowledge and keep us in the loop. Sometimes these have gone quickly, others. . .well. .LONG. In my opinion, thre is no average time. . depends on the case and the attorneys.

joannie · June 2012

A lot of it depends on the employee's attorney. We have had cases settled within 2 weeks after an MMI declaration. If your carrier has made on offer to settle all you can do is sit back and wait for the response. Good Luck!

Still Need Coffee · June 2012

I'm surprise a time limit wasn't given with the settlement offer...."this offer expires at the end of two weeks" or something like that.

How long before one settles?

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