Online calculators often use broad assumptions like average wages, generic injury categories, and “typical” recovery patterns. In Addison, those assumptions can break down quickly because many workers’ schedules and pay structures vary—especially in industries that rely on shifts, overtime, or frequent physical activity.
Common reasons calculator estimates miss the mark:
- Your wage base isn’t the one used online (overtime/shift differentials can change how benefits are framed).
- Your medical status isn’t stabilized yet, so permanency or future treatment costs are still unknown.
- Causation becomes a dispute (for example, when symptoms appear after a delayed onset or the insurer questions whether work aggravated the condition).
- Functional limits are under-documented (restriction notes that are brief or inconsistent often won’t carry as much weight in negotiations).
A calculator can be useful for asking better questions, but it shouldn’t be treated as a promise of what you’ll receive.


