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Amounts were calculated by dividing the total dollars paid by the number of active claims.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor
What is the average Black Lung settlement? Quick Answer
- The Division of Coal Mine Workers' Compensation (DCMWC) has seen a gradual decline in payouts per claim in recent years, starting at $8,610 in 2021, decreasing to $8,410 in 2022, and slightly dropping to $8,350 in 2023.
The Average Black Lung Settlement Payouts Over the Years
Understanding the average payout for black lung claims can provide valuable insight into what you might expect if you or a loved one are pursuing a claim. Based on recent data, the average payouts have fluctuated slightly over the years.
For instance, in 2010, the average payout for a Part C black lung claim was approximately $8,316, and by 2023, it was $8,352. Over the years, modest increases and decreases occurred. The payout peaked at $9,458 in 2017, then gradually declined.
What Is a Black Lung Settlement?
Black lung settlements refer to the compensation awarded to miners who have developed black lung disease due to prolonged exposure to coal dust. These settlements are typically part of the federal Black Lung Benefits Act, which provides financial assistance to miners who have become disabled by black lung, as well as to their surviving dependents.
Factors Influencing the Settlement Amount
Several things can affect how much you might get in a black lung settlement. These include how serious your illness is, how long you were exposed to coal dust, and whether you have family members who could also get compensation. Having a lawyer can make a significant difference, as experienced workers' compensation attorneys are typically more effective at securing higher payouts.
Leading State in Black Lung Payouts
By checking data from 2023, Pennsylvania and Kentucky stand out significantly. Pennsylvania recorded the most black lung claims, with 142,538 total cases. While Kentucky had slightly fewer total cases, it had far more active cases and paid out the highest amount compared to Pennsylvania and all other states. This highlights the severe impact of black lung disease in the region. Kentucky’s prominence underscores its critical role in black lung claims, reflecting the state's extensive coal mining history and associated health risks.
What to Consider When Pursuing a Claim
If you are thinking about filing a black lung claim, it's important to gather as much information as you can. The process usually includes medical check-ups, reviews of your work history, and sometimes legal hearings. The aim is to show that your illness is directly linked to your work in the coal industry, which can be a complicated process.
Keep in mind that these settlements can change over time due to new laws, and economic factors. Staying informed and working with lawyers who specialize in workers’ compensation can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Final Thoughts
The average black lung settlement can offer important financial help to those affected by long-term exposure to coal dust. Getting a settlement can be tough, but understanding what affects the payout and knowing what to expect can help you make better choices. It's a good idea to talk to a lawyer who can guide you through the process and help you get the most compensation possible.
