Workers comp guides — methodology, timing, and settlements
Four editorial guides that explain how workers comp actually works. Written to be read in a tab between adjuster calls, not as marketing copy. Sourced from NCCI, BLS, AMA Guides, and state board data.
How is workers comp calculated?
The 66.67% formula, state caps, TTD vs TPD vs PPD vs PTD, the impairment rating fight, and the PPD lump-sum math. End-to-end worked example with Maria, IL warehouse worker.
Read the guide → Timing · ~11 minWhen will workers comp offer a settlement?
Three triggers: MMI, pre-surgery offers, and full-duty return. MMI timeline table by injury, signs the insurer is closing, and why the first offer is 50–65% of true value.
Read the guide → Data · ~10 minAverage workers comp settlements 2026 — by state & injury
National average $42,008 (NCCI 2021). State table from Illinois ($76K) to Mississippi ($28K), body-part severity ranges, and the surgical premium worked out in detail.
Read the guide → Strategy · ~12 minWorkers comp vs personal injury lawsuit
Exclusive remedy explained. The 5 third-party scenarios that open a parallel PI claim. The workers comp lien — and how to reduce it. Hector's dual-track $133K worked example.
Read the guide →Run the numbers: workers comp settlement calculator. Reference: settlement chart by body part & state. Your state: workers comp by state — all 50.