Average Workers Comp Settlement (2024)

Introduction

Workers' compensation is a vital safety net for employees who suffer injuries on the job, providing medical benefits and indemnity payments to cover lost wages. Understanding the average workers' comp settlement can help both employers and employees navigate the complexities of workplace injuries. This article provides a data-oriented perspective on workers' comp settlements, drawing on recent statistics to highlight trends and averages.

Average Workers' Comp Settlement Overview

The average total incurred cost per claim combines medical expenses and indemnity benefits to reflect the comprehensive burden of workplace injuries. According to the latest data, the average cost across all claims stands at $41,757, with medical costs averaging $22,203 and indemnity payments averaging $19,554.

Costliest Causes of Injury

• Motor Vehicle Accidents: With an average car accident settlement of $89,152, motor vehicle-related incidents rank as the most expensive cause of workers' comp claims. This figure underscores the significant financial impact of such accidents on the workers' comp system.
• Burns: Burn injuries follow, with an average settlement amount of $52,161, indicating the severe nature of these injuries and the extensive treatment they often require.
• Falls/Slips and Caught: Falls or slips result in an average personal injury settlement of $49,971, while injuries from being caught in or between objects average $47,076, both of which exceed the overall claim average.

Settlements for Other Injuries

Injuries from being struck by objects, strains, and cumulative injuries present lower average costs but still constitute a significant financial consideration within the workers' comp landscape.

Worker Settlement Costs by Body Part

From 2020 to 2021, data on workers' compensation claims in the U.S. reveal significant variances in average total incurred costs per claim across different body parts. Head and central nervous system injuries topped the list with $94,285, followed by neck injuries at $65,659, and injuries involving multiple body parts.

Conclusion

The average workers' comp settlement amounts are more than just numbers; they represent the real-life impact of workplace injuries on individuals and businesses. The NCCI data offers critical insights that can help stakeholders in workers' comp claims prepare and plan for the financial aspects of workplace injuries. As the work environment and nature of occupational hazards evolve, so too will the patterns in workers' comp settlements.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only, summarizing workers' compensation settlement trends. It is not legal or financial advice. For specific guidance, consult a professional.