Getting ready to close claim/need settlement info

[dekelley1]

I was working at labor ready with a 3rd party company. We moved a hot tub going down a 45 degree slope. some people let go I stepped forward grabbing the dolly holding the hottub and my knee went pop. It took L&I 8mo to apporve the surgery. I had 50% of my cartilage in my right knee removed. Because L&I took so long to get the surgery approved I now have arthrituis under my knee cap. This causes pain anytime I go up, down stairs or run. I didn't work for a year, And my knee still hurts. Does anyone know what I should expect as far as a settlement? Also I have been hearing something about being able to sue the 3rd party. Does anyone know about this? Please help...

[1171]

since you refered to L&I i'm going to assume you want information about washingtons work comp system. Each state has different rules and benefits.
settlement value depends in part on your rating. What's yours?
to find out more see page 14
http://www.lni.wa.gov/IPUB/242-104-000.pdf
civil law suit requires proof of negligence. it would be handled in superior/civil court by a personal injury atty. workers comp would be entitled to reimbursement of their costs out of any recovery.

[dekelley1]

1171 Wrote:since you refered to L&I i'm going to assume you want information about washingtons work comp system. Each state has different rules and benefits.
settlement value depends in part on your rating. What's yours?
to find out more see page 14
http://www.lni.wa.gov/IPUB/242-104-000.pdf
civil law suit requires proof of negligence. it would be handled in superior/civil court by a personal injury atty. workers comp would be entitled to reimbursement of their costs out of any recovery.

Do you know what the rating scale is?

[1171]

not all states use impairment ratings.
those that do either use a version of the AMA guides or have their own.
since I don't know your state you'll have to contact your state work comp agency or ask your doctor.