Q: Accept 2nd settlement?2.5 yrs of week amount PT work.Herniated disc 1.5 yr ago.Concerned over low amount/future issues.

A: By way of general information, workers' compensation is not like personal injury where you can obtain additional money for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life or loss of opportunity. Workers' compensation awards-assuming there is not a death, loss of use of a body part or facial scar-are confined to related wage loss and related medical. So, the fact that you have pain or that your relationship with your child is impacted is awful, but it does not add any money to your settlement value.

As to whether your settlement offer is fair, no one on here will be able to answer that. We have not reviewed your medical records. We do not have access to the transcripts from the testimony. We do not know who the judge, employer, insurance company or opposing attorney are. All of these things, and many more, matter in determining the value of a case. You have an attorney. I would suggest that you schedule an appointment with your attorney to sit down and go over your concerns. Your attorney should know all of the details of your case and will be in a position to explain why this offer is good or bad. Good luck!

A: First, take stories you hear from other people with a grain of salt. Even if they are not exaggerating, every case is different (based on the facts of the case). One settlement amount has no real relevance to another case. You have an attorney you trust (as you should!). Nobody on this board, no matter how good we are, can be in a better position to give you feedback than your attorney. We do not know the specific facts of your case. Good luck!