How to Increase the Value of Your Work Comp Claim
If you’ve been hurt on the job, you’re probably wondering How to Increase the Value of Your Work Comp Claim. In Wisconsin, workers’ compensation laws offer important protections—but the decisions you make early in your claim can significantly impact your final outcome.
After handling over 2,000 work comp claims and recovering more than $30 million for injured workers across the state, I’ve seen firsthand what works—and what doesn’t. This post explains how to increase the value of your work comp claim by focusing on one of the most critical elements: strong medical support.
1. Work With a Doctor Who Will Stand Behind You
If you want to know how to increase the value of your work comp claim, start with your treating doctor. Your physician’s opinions will shape every stage of your case—from medical treatment to permanent disability benefits.
In most Wisconsin claims, your doctor will be asked to complete a WKC-16-B form that outlines your Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) rating. That rating often makes up the largest portion of financial compensation. If your doctor refuses to provide one, or gives an unreasonably low rating, your claim value can take a serious hit.
Choose a doctor who understands your injury and is willing to give a fair, honest assessment—especially when it’s time to close out the case.
2. Make Sure Restrictions Are Written and Realistic
One of the best ways to increase the value of your work comp claim is to get clear, written work restrictions from your provider. Vague instructions like “light duty” won’t hold up.
Examples of realistic restrictions include:
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No lifting over 10 pounds
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No climbing ladders
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No repetitive reaching, bending, or standing
These restrictions support your right to temporary partial disability (TPD) or even loss of earning capacity, especially if you can’t return to your regular job.
How to Increase the Value of Your Work Comp Claim
3. Report Pain, Loss of Motion, and Limitations Consistently
Don’t minimize your pain or try to “tough it out.” Consistently reporting your symptoms helps your doctor properly assess your condition—and it gives them the basis for assigning a higher PPD rating.
Mention any:
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Loss of range of motion (ROM)
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Weakness or instability
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Ongoing or worsening pain
Pain and ROM loss are both legitimate factors in evaluating how much permanent damage you’ve sustained. These details can directly affect your compensation.
4. Stay Committed to Treatment
Insurance companies love to argue that your injury isn’t serious if you skip appointments. To strengthen your case, follow through with:
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Physical therapy
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Diagnostic imaging
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Specialist visits
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All follow-up care
This builds a clear treatment history and helps support your claim if it ever goes before a judge.
5. Speak With a Work Comp Attorney Early
Many people wait until their benefits are denied or they’re scheduled for an Independent Medical Exam (IME) to call a lawyer. But if you’re serious about learning how to increase the value of your work comp claim, the best time to call is before problems start.
An experienced attorney can:
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Help coordinate your medical records
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Ensure the WKC-16-B is properly completed
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Prepare you for IMEs
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Push for maximum benefits and settlement value
At Axis Legal, we focus almost exclusively on Wisconsin workers’ compensation law. We know what it takes to get real results.
Final Thought: PPD Is Usually the Heart of the Claim
A lot of injured workers don’t realize that Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) is often the biggest single source of compensation in a claim. If your doctor refuses to assess PPD or gives a low rating without justification, it can cost you thousands of dollars.
If you’re not sure whether your doctor is the right fit—or if your claim is being undervalued—call us. We’re here to help you understand how to increase the value of your work comp claim and protect your future.
Workers Compensation Lawyers Wisconsin
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