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Settlement Amounts of Total and Partial Knee Replacements in Connecticut Workers Compensation Claims

Posted by James Aspell | Feb 04, 2025 | 0 Comments

Understanding Settlement Amounts for Knee Replacements in Connecticut Workers' Compensation Claims

When a worker in Connecticut suffers a severe knee injury that requires total or partial knee replacement surgery, they may be entitled to a workers' compensation settlement. These settlements vary based on the severity of the injury, medical costs, lost wages, and other factors. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the potential settlement values for knee replacement cases under Connecticut workers' compensation laws.


 What Determines the Value of a Knee Replacement Workers' Compensation Settlement?

Several factors influence the settlement value of a knee replacement claim in Connecticut, including:

 Severity of the Injury and Medical Expenses

  • The extent of the knee injury plays a significant role in determining compensation.

  • Total knee replacement (TKR) cases generally yield higher settlements than partial knee replacement (PKR) due to the complexity of the surgery and longer recovery time.

  • Costs include hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term medical care.

 Impairment Rating and Disability Level

  • After maximum medical improvement (MMI) is reached, a doctor assigns a permanent partial disability (PPD) rating.

  • A higher impairment rating leads to a higher settlement value.

Impact on Work and Earning Capacity

  • If the worker cannot return to their previous job due to mobility limitations, the claim is likely to be worth more.

  • Vocational rehabilitation costs may be included in the settlement if the worker needs to be retrained for a different job.

Average Weekly Wage (AWW) and Workers' Comp Rate

  • Connecticut workers' compensation settlements are based on two-thirds of the injured worker's AWW.

  • A higher AWW results in a larger settlement amount.

 Negotiation and Legal Representation

  • Experienced workers' compensation attorneys can negotiate higher settlements.

  • Insurance companies may offer lowball settlements without proper legal advocacy.


Typical Settlement Amounts for Knee Replacement Cases in Connecticut

The settlement range for knee replacement workers' compensation claims varies based on case specifics, but here are general figures:

 Partial Knee Replacement Settlement Range

  • $40,000 - $100,000 depending on medical bills, lost wages, and disability rating.

  • Cases where the worker returns to light-duty work generally settle on the lower end.

 Total Knee Replacement Settlement Range

  • $75,000 - $200,000+ based on permanent impairment and work restrictions.

  • Higher settlements apply when there is severe impairment or inability to return to work.

 Lifetime Medical Benefits for Knee Replacement Claims

  • Some settlements include a medical set-aside (MSA) fund for future knee-related medical expenses.

  • Long-term arthritis, complications, or revision surgeries increase settlement amounts.


 Structured Settlements vs. Lump Sum Payments

 Lump Sum Settlements

  • A one-time payment in exchange for closing the claim.

  • Often preferred by workers who want immediate financial relief.

 Structured Settlements

  • Payments are spread over time, providing a steady income.

  • Suitable for workers with long-term medical needs.


 Case Examples of Knee Replacement Settlements in Connecticut

 Example 1 – Partial Knee Replacement Settlement

  • A 55-year-old warehouse worker suffered a knee injury requiring a partial knee replacement.

  • Unable to return to his previous job but found light-duty work.

  • Settlement: $85,000 including future medical expenses.

 Example 2 – Total Knee Replacement Settlement

  • A 60-year-old construction worker required a total knee replacement after a work-related fall.

  • High impairment rating and unable to return to work.

  • Settlement: $175,000 plus lifetime medical coverage.


 The Role of a Workers' Compensation Attorney in Maximizing Settlements

 Why Legal Representation Matters

  • Attorneys negotiate higher settlements by leveraging medical reports, wage loss calculations, and expert testimony.

  • They challenge low settlement offers from insurance companies.

 When to Consult an Attorney

  • If the insurance company denies the claim or offers a low settlement.

  • When there are permanent work restrictions due to knee damage.

  • If there are multiple surgeries or future medical needs.


 Steps to Take for a Fair Workers' Compensation Settlement in Connecticut

 Report the Injury Immediately

  • Notify your employer and file a claim promptly.

 Get a Comprehensive Medical Evaluation

  • A thorough medical assessment supports a higher settlement.

 Keep Detailed Records

  • Maintain documentation of medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.

 Consult a Workers' Compensation Lawyer

  • A lawyer ensures you receive the maximum possible compensation.


 Conclusion

Workers who undergo total or partial knee replacement due to a workplace injury in Connecticut may be eligible for significant workers' compensation settlements. The settlement value depends on factors such as medical expenses, disability rating, lost wages, and long-term impairment. Consulting an experienced workers' compensation attorney can help maximize the claim and secure the best possible outcome.


 

About the Author

James Aspell

Principal since August 1, 2006 James F. Aspell is the principal and managing attorney of the firm which he started in 2006 following 20 years of litigation practice in a mid -size firm in Hartford, Connecticut. Jim focuses his practice in the areas of worker's compensation and personal injury l...

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