Food Service Worker Injured in Alaska?
Last updated: 2026 · Verified against Alaska DWC regulations
Reviewed by: James R. Holloway, Esq.
Workers' Compensation Attorney · CA Bar #248701 · 14 yrs exp.
Last reviewed: January 2026 · Verified against state DWC regulations
Find out what your shoulder injury claim is worth. Alaska workers typically receive $12,000–$85,000. Free, no-obligation assessment.
$12,000
Avg low
$85,000
Avg high
2 years
Deadline
Pre-filled for your situation — just add your wage & impairment info.
Tell us about your work
Your estimated weekly TTD benefit: $640/week
80%
of avg weekly wage (TTD)
$1,464
max weekly benefit
25%
typical attorney fee
2
filing deadline
Alaska Workers' Comp Law — Key Facts
Governing statute: AS 23.30.001 et seq.
TTD rate: 80% of average weekly wage
Maximum weekly benefit: $1,464
Statute of limitations: 2 years from injury
Filing deadline: Report to employer within 30 days
Key features of Alaska's system:
- ✓ 80% TTD rate for first 5 years (among highest in nation)
- ✓ Attorney fee shifting for unreasonable controversion
- ✓ Reemployment benefits program for permanently disabled workers
Alaska's Workers' Compensation Division (within the Department of Labor) administers the system. Alaska provides one of the highest maximum weekly benefits in the nation and an 80% TTD rate for the first five years. The state uses an independent medical evaluator (IME) system and AMA Guides for impairment ratings. Alaska allows for attorney fee awards against employers who unreasonably controvert claims.
What to Expect with Shoulder Injury in Alaska
14%
Average impairment rating
$30,000
Average medical costs
Shoulder injuries — rotator cuff tears, labral tears (SLAP/Bankart), and glenohumeral dislocations — are particularly common among construction workers, painters, electricians, and warehouse staff who perform overhead work. Rotator cuff repairs are among the costliest outpatient orthopedic procedures, with average surgical costs exceeding $25,000. The shoulder is generally a "scheduled" body part in states like New York (312 weeks) and New Jersey (330 weeks), but in AMA-based states the impairment rating methodology often yields lower awards for partial tears that do not require surgery. Contested shoulder claims frequently turn on causation — whether the condition is acute trauma vs. degenerative wear. Documenting a specific incident is critical to maximizing settlement value.
Common treatments
- ✓ Conservative management: rest, sling, NSAIDs
- ✓ Physical therapy (rotator cuff strengthening)
- ✓ Corticosteroid injections
- ✓ Rotator cuff repair (arthroscopic or open)
- ✓ SLAP repair or labral reconstruction
- ✓ Shoulder replacement (severe glenohumeral arthritis)
Documentation needed
- ✓ MRI arthrogram of the shoulder
- ✓ Orthopedic surgeon evaluation notes
- ✓ Job description documenting overhead work duties
- ✓ Employer incident report
- ✓ Physical therapy progress notes
- ✓ AMA impairment rating
Frequently asked questions
How is shoulder injury compensation calculated in Alaska?
In Alaska, your weekly benefit is 80% of your average weekly wage, capped at $1,464. Permanent disability is calculated based on your impairment rating.
What is the average shoulder injury settlement in Alaska?
Alaska workers with shoulder injury typically settle between $12,000 and $85,000, depending on impairment rating, treatment costs, and lost wages.
How long do I have to file a workers' comp claim in Alaska?
2 years from injury. Missing this deadline can permanently bar your claim. Contact a workers' comp attorney as soon as possible.
Do I need a lawyer for a workers' comp claim in Alaska?
You are not required to have an attorney, but representation significantly increases average settlement amounts. Most workers' comp attorneys work on contingency — no fee unless you win. Typical fees are 25% of settlement.
Other Alaska Workers' Comp Claims
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This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Actual compensation depends on the specific facts of your case, your state's workers' compensation laws, and the outcome of any proceedings. Always consult a licensed workers' compensation attorney in your state.