Common Workers’ Comp Settlements for Carpal Tunnel in California
Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Short answer: The typical workers’ compensation settlement in California for carpal tunnel syndrome varies substantially depending on the seriousness of the case. For minor cases, the settlement amount is typically lower, with an average around $30,000. These are cases where the carpal tunnel syndrome is less severe and has a lesser impact on the individual’s ability to work.
Moderate cases often see a higher settlement, with averages potentially reaching up to $50,000. In these cases, the carpal tunnel syndrome may be more pronounced, requiring more extensive treatment and potentially leading to more time off work.
Severe cases, where the carpal tunnel syndrome significantly impacts the individual’s ability to work or requires extensive medical treatment, can see settlement amounts much higher, potentially exceeding $70,000. Please note that these are average figures, and the actual settlement can vary depending on various factors such as medical costs, lost wages, and the impact on the individual’s quality of life. If you have other injuries, check out our California work comp settlement chart.
| Severity of Injury | Average Settlement |
| Minor | Approximately: $30,000 |
| Moderate | Approximately: $50,000 |
| Severe | Approximately: $70,000 |
Example Settlements
- A 55-year-old man injured both hands and arms while performing repetitive job duties at his place of employment. His case settled for $16,000.
- A man suffered significant and permanent injuries to his right hand at work when it became entangled in a grinding stone. He suffered significant and permanent injuries including a complex laceration of the dorsal aspect of the right thumb, extensor pollicis longus laceration, sensory nerve injury, and intrinsic muscle injuries. This case settled for $31,000.
- A defendant was found liable at trial for causing a plaintiff pedestrian’s carpal tunnel injury in an auto accident. This case settled for $150,000.
Estimate What Your Settlement Could Be Worth
Fill out the questions below to receive an estimate of your potential settlement in approximately 90 seconds. Don’t let your medical costs and expenses accumulate!
How Long Does a Carpal Tunnel Case Take to Settle in California?
According to research by the California Workers’ Compensation Institute , carpal tunnel claims in California see an average duration of close to 31 months. This is considerably more than the average for other claims in the state, which average less than 11 months. Please be aware that the time frame can vary based on the facts of each case. It’s always a good idea to consult with a legal professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.
What Factors Affect a Settlement Amount?
Several factors can affect the settlement amount in a Carpal Tunnel Case, such as:
- Medical Evidence: The strength of medical evidence supporting the claim is crucial. This includes medical records, doctor’s notes, and any other documentation that substantiates the injury.
- Severity of the Injury: The extent of the carpal tunnel syndrome and how much medical treatment it necessitated can significantly influence the settlement amount.
- Impact on Work: If the injury has resulted in lost wages or has affected the ability to work, it can increase the settlement amount.
- Age of the Plaintiff: The age of the injured worker can also play a role in the settlement amount.
- Length of Employment: How long the worker had been employed before the injury occurred can also affect the settlement.
- Additional Workplace Injuries: If the worker has suffered additional injuries in the workplace, this could potentially increase the settlement amount.
Every case is unique, and these factors will vary in importance depending on the specifics of each case, this is why we always recommend consulting with a legal professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.
What Will My Settlement Cover?
A Carpal Tunnel Case settlement typically covers the following:
- Medical Treatments: Both past and future medical treatments related to the carpal tunnel syndrome are usually covered.
- Physical Therapy: The cost of physical therapy required for recovery can be included.
- Medication Costs: Any costs incurred for medications needed for treatment are typically covered.
- Future Earnings: If the injury has affected your ability to work, the settlement may cover potential future earnings.
- Temporary Disability: If the injury has resulted in a temporary disability that affects your ability to work, the settlement may cover this.
- Permanent Disability: In cases where the injury results in a permanent disability, the settlement may provide compensation.
- Lost Wages: If you’ve lost wages due to time off work for recovery, these may be recovered.
- Job Displacement Benefits: If the injury has resulted in you being unable to continue with your current job, and you need to be retrained for a new position, the settlement may cover these costs.
Please keep in mind that the specifics of a settlement may differ depending on the facts of the case and local legislation.
Common Challenges With This Type of Work Comp Case
There are several common challenges that can arise when dealing with a Carpal Tunnel Syndrome workers’ compensation case, including:
- Proving the Injury is Work-Related: Carpal tunnel syndrome can occur gradually and can be the result of risk factors outside the workplace. This makes it challenging to prove that the condition is primarily due to work duties.
- Employer Skepticism: Some employers may doubt that the carpal tunnel syndrome is work-related, especially if symptoms appear gradually.
- Insurance Denials: Insurers may argue that your condition is due to non-work activities or a pre-existing condition.
- Multifactored Causes: The various causes of carpal tunnel syndrome can make it difficult to receive compensation since predisposition could reduce or negate a settlement and occupational risk factors can be difficult to prove.
These challenges highlight the importance of having strong medical evidence and legal representation when filing a workers’ compensation claim for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Tips to Maximize Your Settlement Amount
Here are some tips to maximize your settlement amount in a Carpal Tunnel Case:
- Seek Medical Help: As soon as you notice symptoms, seek medical help. This not only ensures your health but also provides crucial medical evidence for your case.
- Document Everything: Keep a record of all medical treatments, doctor’s visits, medications, and how the injury has affected your daily life.
- Notify Your Employer: Inform your employer about your injury as soon as possible. This is a critical step in the workers’ compensation process.
- Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer: A lawyer who specializes in workers’ compensation can guide you through the process and help maximize your settlement.
- Avoid Rushing the Process: While it might be tempting to settle your case quickly, it’s important to ensure all factors, including future medical costs and earnings, are adequately accounted for.
- Be Consistent: Be consistent in your medical appointments and follow-ups. Regular medical check-ups show the ongoing seriousness of your condition.
- Understand the Full Impact of Your Injury: Understand how your injury affects your ability to work and your quality of life. This will be crucial when negotiating your settlement.
Each case is different, and these tips may not apply to all worker’s compensation cases.
Get Connected With an Attorney
Are you suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome due to your work environment? It may be time to assert your rights and pursue the compensation you rightfully deserve.
At LawLinq, we provide a complimentary service to connect you with premier attorneys specializing in workplace-related carpal tunnel cases within the state. Our network has multiple top rated work comp attorneys, ready to give you the best representation possible. Contact LawLinq today to get started.
