How Much Is My Workers’ Comp Case Worth in Iowa?

Those who were injured on the job in Iowa can make a workers' compensation claim. Workers' compensation benefits are available, but in most cases, a lawyer is required to get the maximum benefits. Many people in Iowa may receive benefits, but they often wonder:

"How much is my workers' comp case worth?"

This is a very fair and important question. Workplace injuries often lead to steep medical bills, lost wages, and even long-term disabilities. All of these can affect a person's ability to earn a living. Fortunately, Iowa offers assistance to those who have been injured at work. However, the value of the case depends on many factors.

The team at Tom Fowler Law understands workers' compensation law, and they are focused on helping their clients get the compensation they deserve. To learn more about how to make the final settlement as high as possible, keep reading:

Understanding Iowa’s Workers’ Compensation System

Iowa's workers' compensation system was created to protect employees who were injured on the job, even if it was their fault. Iowa has a no-fault system in place, which means the injured person does not need to prove the employer was negligent in order to get benefits.

For most Iowa workers' compensation cases, the following is available:

• Medical treatment for the injury

• Wage and income replacement if the victim cannot work

• Disability benefits, including permanent disability benefits

• Vocational rehabilitation

• Mileage or travel reimbursement for travel to medical appointments

It's important to note - in most cases, in Iowa, a victim cannot sue their employer for pain and suffering. The workers compensation settlement that is given is the only compensation the injured person will receive. The only exception is if another party, like an equipment manufacturer, is also found to be liable in the injury. Then, the worker can sue that party.

What Factors Affect the Value of a Workers’ Comp Case?

Every workers comp case is different, but there are multiple factors that can play a role in how much the case is worth:

The Nature and Severity of the Work-Related Injury

The more serious the work injury is, the higher the compensation is likely to be. A minor injury, like a cut or a sprain, will likely have lower payouts. However, more severe injuries often pay higher for most people. These include:

• Fractures

• Back and neck injuries

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

• Amputations

• Repetitive stress injuries (carpal tunnel, tendonitis)

• Occupational illnesses (like chemical exposure)

Temporary vs. Permanent Disability

In workers' compensation cases, a doctor will assign disability ratings for severe injuries after reaching maximum medical improvement, which is the most they will likely be able to heal.

There are different types of ratings including:

• Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If the victim is temporarily unable to work, they will receive wage replacement benefits while they recover.

• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): If the victim can return to work but have a lasting impairment, they will receive compensation based on a disability rating and the body part affected.

• Permanent Total Disability (PTD): If the victim is unable to work in any capacity again, they may qualify for lifetime benefits.

These ratings are often the single biggest factor in determining long-term payout.

Average Weekly Wage (AWW)

Another thing to keep in mind is that workers compensation benefits are based on the average weekly wage before the injury. Typically, victims are entitled to 80% of their weekly earnings. Those who have a higher salary or those who worked overtime will also have that additional compensation added in.

Length of Time Off Work

The longer a person is unable to work, the more compensation they may receive. If the injury, for example, leads to reduced work hours or job restrictions, they may also qualify for additional benefits.

Future Medical Needs

If the injury requires surgery, physical therapy, medication, or long-term future medical care, this can be included in a settlement.

What Benefits are Available in Iowa?

There are different types of workers' compensation benefits available, including the following:

Medical Benefits

• 100% of necessary medical expenses are covered

• This includes doctor visits, surgeries, prescriptions, physical therapy, and assistive devices

Wage Replacement

• Temporary disability payments while the victim is off work

• Generally, the amount is 80% of their spendable weekly wages

Permanent Disability

• Based on permanent restrictions to specific body parts (scheduled injuries)

• Whole body injuries are valued differently and can be more complex

Vocational Rehabilitation

• In cases where the victim can’t return to their former job, they may be eligible for retraining or job placement services

Mileage Reimbursement

• Travel to and from medical appointments is reimbursable

Lump-Sum Settlements

• Many workers’ comp cases end in a negotiated settlement amount that covers wage loss and medical care

• A lawyer can help evaluate whether a settlement is fair and reflects your long-term needs. If there is a disagreement, a compromise settlement may come into play. Additionally, this workers comp lawyer in Des Moines may discuss if this is a possibility.

How Much Are Workers’ Comp Cases Worth in Iowa?

Every case is unique, but there are some general ranges that victims can look at to get a good estimate of their case:

• Minor injury with full recovery: $5,000–$15,000

• Moderate injury with partial disability: $20,000–$50,000

• Major injury with long-term limitations: $75,000–$150,000+

• Permanent total disability: $200,000 or more (may include ongoing lifetime benefits)

The numbers can widely vary based on the victim's wages, medical records, restrictions, earning capacity, and whether or not they return to work. An insurance carrier often tries to keep this as low as possible. This is why it's so important to work with a law firm before they settle the case. They can help with getting a settlement approved and consider if an appeal to the Workers' Compensation Commissioner is necessary. They can help with questions like How much is my dog bite case worth in Iowa?

A Workers Comp Lawyer Can Help with Expenses Following a Worker's Comp Case

Even though the workers' comp system is meant to help workers who were injured on the job, insurers will try to get an injured worker to review and accept settlements that are unfair. Once the worker signs, they are likely stuck with an unfair settlement. This is why hiring an attorney who understands Iowa law can be the difference between a successful case and one that causes issues for years to come. They can also assist with questions such as How much is my medical malpractice case worth in Iowa?

At Tom Fowler Law, they know how to fight back. They help clients:

• Get second opinions and proper impairment evaluations

• Obtain full medical documentation

• Calculate long-term wage loss and care costs

• Negotiate lump-sum settlements that reflect the true value of the case

Oftentimes, a workers' comp case is worth a lot more than the insurance company say — especially if the victim has suffered permanent injuries or can’t return to their previous job.

The team at Tom Fowler Law knows the Iowa workers’ comp system inside and out — and they will be by their client's side every step of the way.

Consult with Tom Fowler Law today for a free consultation.