The Workers’ Compensation Research Institute (WCRI) published a new report analyzing the lifecycle of New York workers’ comp claims from 2018, evaluated in 2023. The study provides a thorough examination of overall claim costs, timing of key indemnity payments, and other essential system performance indicators.

At 49 pages, there are many insights. Key findings include:

• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) impacted 15% of claims but 70% of total costs
• Medical-Only Claims made up 61% of claims but just 3% of costs
• Lump-Sum Settlements Only Claims made up 81% of PPD claims, averaging $47,063
• 35% of indemnity claims had settlements, averaging nearly $46,500. Settlement amounts were broken down as follows:
  • 68% under $50,000.
  • 21% between $50,000 and $100,000
  • 11% exceeded $100,000
• First Indemnity Payment averaged a median of 26 days from injury
• First PPD Payment averaged a median of 2 years (729 days).
• 2018 claims reflected 2017 reforms allowing credits for temporary disability payments exceeding 2.5 years
• Average claim duration was 25 weeks.
• 83% of claims resolved within a year