After an injury, you are dealing with financial pressures, physical pain, and more. Work injuries are nearly always handled by the workers’ compensation system in California. This means you have to navigate the system, provide documentation, and perhaps even deal with a denied claim. Either way, you’re likely wondering what your claim will to help you get back on track. Understanding averages gives you a general idea, but an attorney can better identify what is likely in your particular case.
At Ratto Law Firm, P.C., our California workers’ compensation attorneys are ready to help you pursue compensation after a work-related injury. Let us help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Why Settlement Amounts Vary So Much
California does not use a fixed payout chart for specific injuries. Instead, settlements depend on multiple factors, including:
- The severity of the injury
- Whether surgery is required
- Permanent disability rating
- Ability to return to work
- Future medical needs
- Average weekly wage at the time of injury
- Disputes over causation or treatment
Settlement ranges are broad because so much depends on your unique case. However, knowing some of the patterns helps give you an idea of what to expect.
Average Settlement for Back Injuries in California
Back injuries are often some of the most expensive claims. This might include a herniated disc, a spinal fracture, or even more serious injuries. They often need extensive treatment, like surgery or physical therapy.
Settlement ranges typically include:
- Mild to Moderate Back Injuries: $20,000–$50,000
- Severe Back Injuries Requiring Surgery: $50,000–$150,000
- Cases Involving Spinal Fusion or Long-Term Disability: $150,000+
Back injuries tend to settle higher than many other injury types because they frequently result in permanent work restrictions.
Average Settlement for Knee Injuries in California
Knee injuries are very common workers’ comp claims. Healthcare workers, manufacturing employees, and construction workers especially deal with these injuries.
Typical settlement ranges include:
- Sprains and Soft-Tissue Injuries: $10,000–$30,000
- Meniscus Tears Requiring Arthroscopic Surgery: $30,000–$60,000
- ACL or MCL Tears Requiring Reconstruction: $60,000–$100,000+
Knee injuries often need a lot of recovery time. Even after that, you may suffer mobility issues or chronic pain. The settlement may increase much more the longer your symptoms last.
Average Settlement for Shoulder Injuries in California
Shoulder injuries are also frequent. This can happen from repetitive motions, lifting, or even falling on your shoulder.
Typical settlement ranges include:
- Mild Shoulder Strains: $15,000–$35,000
- Rotator Cuff Tears Requiring Surgery: $40,000–$90,000
- Severe Tears or Multiple Surgeries: $100,000+
These injuries limit your ability to lift, push, pull, and do overhead work. This could limit your ability to do the job you’re used to, which could increase your overall settlement.
How California Calculates Permanent Disability
Permanent disability (PD) is one of the most important factors in determining settlement value. California uses a formula that considers:
- The worker’s impairment rating
- Age
- Occupation
- Diminished future earning capacity
A higher PD rating generally leads to a larger settlement. Injuries requiring surgery or causing long-term limitations typically result in higher ratings.
Factors That Increase Settlement Value
Several circumstances can push settlements higher, including:
- Surgery or multiple surgeries
- Permanent work restrictions
- Inability to return to the same job
- High pre-injury wages
- Disputes over treatment that require legal intervention
- Chronic pain or long-term mobility issues
What Injured Workers Should Do to Protect Their Claim
Workers can strengthen their case by:
- Reporting the injury immediately
- Following all medical recommendations
- Keeping detailed records of symptoms and limitations
- Requesting a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) when necessary
- Consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney
Because California’s workers’ compensation system is complex, many injured workers benefit from legal guidance—especially when dealing with serious back, knee, or shoulder injuries.
Learn More About the Average Settlement for Your Work Injuries in California
While these averages can help give you an idea, your settlement will depend on your unique situation. We are here to help you analyze what happened and consider what your settlement may be worth.
Our team at Ratto Law Firm, P.C. provides you with the advice and representation you need. Contact us today for a consultation.