If you were injured on the job in Georgia, understanding your workers’ compensation options is crucial. A stipulated award in workers’ compensation is an agreement on an award amount between all parties involved in the claim.
Workers’ comp claims are often complicated, and insurance companies go to great lengths to limit payouts. An Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyer can handle your case and help make sure you receive all of the benefits you are entitled to.
What Does a Stipulated Award Mean in Workers’ Compensation Cases?
A stipulated award is an agreement between an injured worker and their employer’s insurance company regarding the benefits the worker is entitled to receive. Essentially, both parties agree on the compensation amount and terms, which the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation then formally approves.
This agreement can cover temporary disability benefits, permanent partial disability, medical expenses, or a combination of these. In Georgia, the process works as follows:
- The employee submits a workers’ compensation claim after a workplace injury.
- The insurance company investigates the claim and may dispute some aspects.
- If both parties can agree on the extent of disability and appropriate benefits, they can enter a stipulated award instead of going to a hearing.
- The agreement is then submitted to the State Board of Workers’ Compensation, which issues a formal order based on the stipulation.
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Advantages of a Stipulated Award
A stipulated award offers several benefits, such as:
- Faster resolution: You can receive benefits without waiting for a formal hearing.
- Reduced stress: Negotiating a stipulated award can help you avoid lengthy legal proceedings.
- Certainty of outcome: Both parties know what to expect, eliminating surprises.
- Lower legal costs: A stipulated award may reduce attorney fees and administrative expenses.
Types of Benefits Covered in a Stipulated Award
A stipulated award can cover various types of workers’ compensation benefits, including:
- Temporary total disability benefits: You may receive these payments if you are unable to work due to your injury.
- Permanent partial disability benefits: You can receive compensation for lasting physical impairments that affect your ability to perform certain tasks.
- Medical treatment: Coverage can include ongoing medical care, such as surgeries, therapy, and medications.
- Wage replacement: You can receive a portion of your lost wages while you recover.
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Potential Drawbacks of a Stipulated Award
Although stipulated awards have clear advantages, there are some potential drawbacks, such as:
- Limited flexibility: Once approved, modifications are difficult unless there’s a significant change in your medical condition.
- Possibility of underpayment: If you agree too quickly without fully understanding your future medical needs, you may receive less than you deserve.
- Binding agreement: The award is legally binding, which means you cannot later dispute the agreed-upon benefits without a strong justification.
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When Should You Consider a Stipulated Award?
A stipulated award may be appropriate in several situations, such as if:
- You and the insurance company agree on the extent of your injury: If both sides are confident about the medical evaluation, a stipulated award can resolve the claim quickly.
- You want to avoid a hearing: Workers who prefer to bypass a formal hearing process may find a stipulated award appealing.
- You need immediate access to benefits: If you require financial assistance for medical bills or lost wages, a stipulated award can provide faster access to compensation.
- You want certainty in your case’s outcome: A stipulated award provides clarity and prevents potential disputes later on.
Even if you enter into a stipulated award, you should review the terms with a workers’ compensation attorney to ensure your rights are fully protected.
How an Attorney Can Help With a Stipulated Award
While a stipulated award can simplify the workers’ compensation process, reaching a fair agreement is rarely easy. An experienced attorney can:
- Review the terms: A lawyer can ensure the stipulated award accurately reflects the benefits you are entitled to under Georgia law.
- Negotiate on your behalf: An attorney can advocate for a fair settlement, especially if the insurance company initially offers less than you deserve.
- Explain legal implications: A lawyer can help you understand the long-term effects of accepting a stipulated award.
- Assist with modifications: An attorney can advise you on your options if your medical condition changes after the award is approved.
Consult a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
If you are dealing with a workplace injury, a stipulated award can be a fast, efficient way to secure workers’ compensation benefits. By agreeing on compensation terms with the insurance company, you can avoid lengthy hearings and receive financial support more quickly.
However, without legal help, you may agree to an award that doesn’t cover all of your losses or account for your long-term needs. A workers’ compensation lawyer from Bader Law Injury Lawyers can review your case, explain your options, and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case with an attorney.
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