Figures recently released by WorkSafe Victoria show an increase in the number of applications from injured workers seeking lump sum compensation for serious injuries.

On average, approximately 210 new applications were lodged each month between July 2012 and June 2013 by employees who had suffered injuries significant enough to prevent them returning to work or performing their usual daily activities.

If a worker's application is successful, they are then entitled to pursue pain and suffering damages as well as compensation for lost earnings. According to the recent statistics from WorkSafe, approximately 61% of applications resolved within 120 days of their lodgement.

Where a dispute arises between the worker and their employer about their severity of their injury or how much compensation they are entitled to, proceedings are usually issued for the courts to settle the matter. WorkSafe have advised that the average time for a matter to resolve from the date an application is lodged can be anywhere between six and a half months to two and a half years.

The length of time that an application can take often depends on the complexity of a person's condition and the circumstances in which they were injured.

If you or someone you know have been injured whilst at work, we suggest you contact one of our WorkCover experts on (03) 9321 9988 for advice on your potential entitlement to compensation.