When you’re injured on the job, you have the right to workers’ compensation benefits under New York State law. These benefits can cover medical treatment and lost wages, and in some cases, the insurance company may offer a lump-sum settlement to resolve your claim.
It’s common for injured workers to feel tempted by that first settlement offer, especially when medical bills are piling up and regular income has stopped. But before you accept, it’s critical to understand what’s really on the table.
Insurance Companies Don’t Work for You
The workers’ compensation insurance carrier is not on your side. They are trying to save money—not ensure your long-term recovery. That’s why they often make early settlement offers that may seem generous at first glance but fail to account for the full scope of your injuries, long-term care needs, or the lasting impact on your ability to work.
Accepting a settlement too early could leave you without the medical coverage or financial support you may need down the road.
What Is a Section 32 Settlement?
In New York, most workers’ comp settlements are referred to as Section 32 settlements. These are voluntary agreements between you and the insurance company to close some or all parts of your claim, usually lost wage benefits and future medical care. But a Section 32 settlement is not guaranteed, and no party—including a judge—can force a settlement.
Once you agree to settle under Section 32, the parts of your claim that are closed cannot be reopened, even if your condition worsens, unless both parties agree to reopen the claim, which is extremely rare.
Before You Accept a Settlement, Consider:
- The severity of your injury and how long you’ll need treatment
- Whether you’ll be able to return to your previous job or need retraining
- Future medical costs, especially for surgeries, therapy, or medication
- The actual value of your claim, which might be far more than the first offer
- Your legal rights, and what protections you may be signing away
You Deserve a Settlement That Reflects the Full Picture
At MCV Law, we’ve helped thousands of injured workers across New York understand their options when it comes to Section 32 settlements. We’ve developed proven processes to evaluate settlement offers and guide our clients to informed, confident decisions about what’s best for their future.
Before you accept any settlement, talk to an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. We’ll help you weigh your options and advocate for a resolution that protects your long-term health and financial stability.
Contact MCV Law today for a free consultation.