Average Workplace Injury Settlement in Nashville, TN

You were just doing your job when it happened.

Maybe you slipped on a wet floor in the warehouse. Maybe a piece of machinery malfunctioned. Maybe you lifted something heavy and felt your back give out.

Now you’re hurt, you can’t work, and you’re wondering: What is my workplace injury case worth?

At The Higgins Firm, we’ve helped injured Tennessee workers deal with the workers’ compensation system and pursue fair settlements for their injuries. While every case is different, understanding how workplace injury settlements work can help you know what to expect and when you might need legal help.

Here’s what you need to know about average workplace injury settlements in Tennessee.

What’s the Average Workplace Injury Settlement in Tennessee?

Tennessee workplace injury settlements can vary significantly based on the type and severity of the injury. While no two cases are the same, certain patterns tend to emerge:

• Minor injuries often result in smaller settlements due to shorter recovery times and minimal medical treatment.
• Moderate injuries—such as those requiring surgery or extended time off work—typically lead to higher compensation.
• Severe or long-term injuries may involve permanent disability, long-term care, or multiple surgeries, often increasing the value of the claim.
• Catastrophic injuries—including those involving paralysis, amputation, or brain trauma—can lead to substantial settlements due to the life-altering impact and ongoing care needs.

Every case is unique. Your potential settlement will depend on factors like medical treatment, lost wages, long-term effects, and whether your ability to work has been permanently affected.

Workers’ Compensation vs. Personal Injury Settlements

Most workplace injuries in Tennessee are covered by workers’ compensation insurance. This is different from a personal injury lawsuit, and the compensation works differently:

Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Workers’ comp provides:

• Medical expenses – All necessary medical treatment
• Wage replacement – Typically 66.67% of your average weekly wage
• Permanent disability benefits – If you have lasting impairment
• Death benefits – For families if a worker dies

When You Can Sue Your Employer

In most cases, you cannot sue your employer for workplace injuries. Workers’ compensation is your exclusive remedy. However, there are exceptions:

• Intentional harm – If your employer deliberately injured you
• No workers’ comp coverage – If your employer illegally doesn’t carry insurance
• Third-party claims – If someone other than your employer caused your injury

What Factors Affect Your Workplace Injury Settlement?

1. Severity of Your Injury

More serious injuries typically result in higher settlements:

• Temporary injuries that heal completely have lower values
• Permanent disabilities that affect your ability to work have higher values
• Multiple injuries or complications increase the settlement amount

2. Your Pre-Injury Wages

Workers’ compensation benefits are calculated based on your average weekly wage before the injury. Higher earners typically receive higher benefits.

3. Medical Expenses

All necessary medical treatment should be covered, including:

• Hospital stays and surgeries
• Doctor visits and specialists
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Medications and medical equipment
• Future medical care if needed

4. Permanent Disability Rating

If you have permanent impairment, a doctor will assign a permanent partial disability rating. This percentage determines your long-term benefits.

5. Your Age and Career

Younger workers with longer careers ahead may receive higher settlements for permanent injuries that affect their future earning capacity.

6. Return to Work Ability

Can you return to your old job? Do you need job retraining? These factors affect the value of your claim.

Common Types of Workplace Injuries in Tennessee

At The Higgins Firm, we’ve handled workplace injury cases involving:

Construction Injuries

• Falls from heights
• Equipment accidents
• Struck-by incidents
• Electrocution

Manufacturing Injuries

• Machinery accidents
• Chemical exposure
• Repetitive motion injuries
• Crushing injuries

Healthcare Worker Injuries

• Needlestick injuries
• Back injuries from lifting patients
• Workplace violence
• Exposure to infectious diseases

Office Injuries

• Slip and fall accidents
• Repetitive strain injuries
• Ergonomic injuries
• Workplace violence

Transportation Injuries

• Vehicle accidents
• Loading dock injuries
• Forklift accidents
• Delivery driver injuries

When Do You Need a Lawyer for Your Workplace Injury?

Your Claim Is Denied

If your employer or their insurance company denies your claim, you need experienced legal representation to fight for your rights.

You’re Not Getting Proper Medical Care

If the insurance company is limiting your medical treatment or forcing you to see doctors who minimize your injuries.

You’re Offered a Low Settlement

Insurance companies often offer quick settlements that are far below what your case is actually worth.

You Have a Permanent Disability

Permanent injuries require careful evaluation to ensure you receive fair compensation for your long-term limitations.

There Are Third-Party Claims

If someone other than your employer caused your injury, you may have additional claims worth pursuing.

Your Employer Retaliates

If you’re fired, demoted, or harassed for filing a workers’ compensation claim.

How Long Do Workplace Injury Settlements Take?

The timeline varies depending on several factors:

Simple cases with clear-cut injuries and cooperative employers may settle in a few months.

Complex cases involving permanent disabilities, disputed claims, or multiple medical issues can take a year or more.

What If Your Employer Doesn’t Have Workers’ Compensation?

In Tennessee, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If your employer doesn’t have coverage:

• You may be able to sue your employer directly
• You could pursue a personal injury lawsuit
• You might be eligible for benefits from the state’s Uninsured Employers Fund

Common Mistakes That Hurt Your Case

Not Reporting Your Injury Immediately

You must report workplace injuries to your employer as soon as possible. Delays can hurt your claim.

Not Seeking Medical Attention

Even if your injury seems minor, get medical treatment. Some injuries worsen over time.

Accepting the First Settlement Offer

Initial offers are often much lower than what your case is actually worth.

Not Following Medical Advice

Skipping appointments or not following treatment recommendations can be used against you.

Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Help

Insurance adjusters may use your statements against you later.

How The Higgins Firm Can Help

Workplace injury cases can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies that want to minimize your claim.

At The Higgins Firm, we:

• Investigate your claim thoroughly to build the strongest possible case
• Handle all communications with insurance companies and employers
• Ensure you get proper medical care from qualified doctors
• Calculate the full value of your claim, including future medical needs
• Fight for maximum compensation through negotiation or litigation
• Explore third-party claims that could increase your recovery
• Protect you from retaliation by your employer

FAQs

Can I choose my own doctor for a workplace injury?

In Tennessee, your employer initially chooses your doctor, but you can request a one-time change to another doctor from their approved panel. An attorney can help you navigate this process.

What if my employer says my injury wasn’t work-related?

If your employer disputes that your injury is work-related, you’ll need to prove the connection. Medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony can help establish this link.

How long do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim?

In Tennessee, you must report your injury to your employer within 30 days and file a formal claim within one year of the injury or when you knew it was work-related.

Can I be fired for filing a workers’ compensation claim?

No, it’s illegal for employers to retaliate against workers for filing legitimate workers’ compensation claims. If this happens, you may have additional legal remedies.

What if I was partially at fault for my injury?

Workers’ compensation is a “no-fault” system, meaning you can typically receive benefits even if you were partially at fault for your injury. However, benefits may be reduced if you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Should I accept a lump sum settlement?

Lump sum settlements can be beneficial in some cases, but they’re not right for everyone. An attorney can help you evaluate whether a lump sum or ongoing benefits would be better for your situation.

Don’t Settle for Less Than You Deserve

A workplace injury can change your life in an instant. Medical bills pile up, you can’t work, and your family’s financial security is at risk.

You deserve fair compensation for your injuries, but insurance companies often try to minimize claims or deny them altogether. That’s where we come in.

At The Higgins Firm, we understand how workers’ compensation works in Tennessee, and we know how to fight for the benefits you deserve. We’ll handle the legal complexity while you focus on healing.

Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you. Contact The Higgins Firm today for a free consultation.

Because when you’re hurt at work, you deserve a legal team that will fight for your rights and your future.