A Guide to Workers’ Comp Ankle Injury Settlements in Illinois

Does Surgery Increase the Value of Your Ankle Injury Settlement?

When an ankle injury requires surgery, it often leads to a higher settlement amount compared to injuries that heal without surgical intervention. Surgery typically indicates a more severe injury, a longer recovery period, and a greater impact on your ability to work and perform daily activities. These factors can increase the overall value of a workers’ compensation or personal injury claim.

Insurance companies and courts take into account the type of surgery performed, the cost of medical treatment, time off work, and any long-term effects like limited mobility or chronic pain. In addition to medical bills, you may also be compensated for lost wages, physical therapy, and potential future treatments.

If your injury was job-related, it’s important to work with an experienced attorney to ensure your settlement reflects the full extent of your medical needs and losses.

What is the average payout for an ankle injury with surgery?

The average payout for an ankle injury that requires surgery can vary widely depending on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the type of surgery, and how the injury affects your work and quality of life. Generally, settlements for ankle injuries with surgery range from $20,000 to over $100,000, though more serious cases may exceed this range.

For example, if the surgery involved pins, plates, or screws—or if there were complications or permanent damage—the settlement could be significantly higher. The final amount often reflects not just medical costs but also lost income, pain and suffering, and any long-term physical limitations.

Keep in mind, each case is unique, and the best way to get an accurate estimate is by consulting legal and medical professionals familiar with your situation.

How Do I File a Claim for a Work-Related Ankle Injury in Illinois?

1. Report the Injury: Notify your employer as soon as possible—ideally within 45 days of the injury. Include details about when, where, and how it happened.
2. Seek Medical Treatment: Get medical attention right away. Tell the doctor your injury is work-related so it’s properly documented.
3. Document Everything: Keep records of your injury, treatment, missed work, and any communication with your employer or insurer.
4. File a Claim with the IWCC: If needed, file an Application for Adjustment of Claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC). This step is required if your benefits are denied or delayed.
5. Consult an Attorney: A workers’ comp attorney can help protect your rights, especially if your injury is serious or involves surgery.
6. Follow Through with Treatment and Updates: Continue medical care and keep your employer updated on your recovery and any work restrictions.

What Compensation Can I Get for Sustaining an Ankle Injury at Work?

If you sustain an ankle injury while on the job, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs. The specific compensation depends on the severity of the injury and its impact on your ability to work and perform daily activities. Here are some potential types of compensation:

• Medical Expenses: Workers’ compensation covers the costs of medical treatment related to your ankle injury. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, prescriptions, physical therapy, and any other necessary treatments.
• Lost Wages: If your injury prevents you from working, you may be entitled to wage replacement benefits. These benefits typically cover two-thirds of your average weekly wages, though there are limits depending on your specific situation.
• Permanent Disability Benefits: If your ankle injury results in permanent disability or lasting limitations, you may qualify for additional compensation. These benefits are based on the severity of the disability and how it affects your ability to work and carry out daily tasks.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job, you may be entitled to vocational rehabilitation. This can include job training or retraining to help you find a new role that accommodates your injury.
• Pain and Suffering: In some cases, if the injury was caused by employer negligence, you may be able to file a personal injury claim for pain and suffering, which compensates for emotional and physical distress related to the injury.
• Other Benefits: Depending on your injury, you might also qualify for other benefits, such as transportation costs for medical visits or assistance with home modifications if the injury significantly impacts your mobility.

Each case is unique, so it’s a good idea to consult with a workers’ compensation attorney to ensure you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to.

What Is the Average Workers’ Comp Settlement for an Ankle Injury?

The average workers' comp settlement for an ankle injury can range significantly based on the specifics of the case. Generally, settlements for ankle injuries in Illinois can fall between $20,000 and $100,000 or more. The exact amount depends on several factors, such as the severity of the injury, whether surgery was required, and the long-term impact on your ability to work.

For a minor ankle injury that heals with rest and medical treatment, the settlement might be on the lower end of the spectrum. However, if surgery is required or if the injury causes permanent damage or long-term disability, the settlement could be considerably higher. It’s also important to note that each case is unique, and working with an experienced attorney can help ensure that your settlement reflects the full scope of your injury and losses.

What Are the Requirements for Ankle Injury Workers’ Compensation in Illinois?

To qualify for workers' compensation benefits for an ankle injury in Illinois, there are specific requirements and steps you need to follow.

• The Injury Must Be Work-Related: The injury must occur while performing tasks related to your job or during activities required by your employer. If you injure your ankle while at work or traveling for work-related duties, it will generally be covered by workers' compensation.
• Timely Reporting: You are required to report your ankle injury to your employer as soon as possible, and no later than 45 days from the date of the injury. Failing to report within this timeframe can jeopardize your eligibility for benefits.
• Seek Medical Treatment: You must seek medical care from an approved healthcare provider.
• Document the Injury: Keep detailed records of your injury, medical visits, treatments, and any communications with your employer. This documentation will support your claim and ensure you're fully compensated.
• Cooperation with the Insurance Adjuster: You’ll likely be contacted by the insurance company’s adjuster to discuss your case. Be prepared to provide information regarding your injury and treatment. Failure to cooperate can impact your claim’s outcome.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Workers' Comp Ankle Injury Settlement?

The timeline for receiving a workers' compensation ankle injury settlement in Illinois can vary based on several factors, including the severity of the injury, whether surgery is required, and if the claim is disputed. On average, settlements can take anywhere from a few months to over a year to finalize. If there are complications, such as delays in medical treatment or disagreements over the extent of the injury, the process may take longer. Working with an experienced attorney can help expedite the process and ensure you receive a fair settlement.

Knowledgeable & Experienced Ankle Injury Workers’ Comp Attorneys

At Vasilatos Injury Law, we will be able to help you file your workers’ comp claim, provide representation in and out of court, and help you seek the compensation you deserve. Our team of experienced attorneys understands the importance of being able to restore your life to the way it was prior to your injury.

We will determine precisely how the injury has impacted your employment, finances, and overall wellbeing, and will help you seek the benefits you deserve. We’ll work with you to ensure you get a fair settlement that covers medical expenses, along with any lost wages resulting from time taken off work to recover.

We have provided reliable representation for many clients who have suffered from ankle injuries on the job, along with many other types of injuries sustained in work-related incidents. We will work hard to help you restore your life to the way it was.