Workers’ compensation can be a little confusing. The language and abbreviations used to define different levels of disability might leave you wondering how your injury is classified, and what kind of benefits you’re entitled to based on your disability. A workers’ compensation attorney can help you determine your disability status and obtain the correct earnings you are entitled to under workers’ compensation law.
Temporary Disability vs. Permanent Disability
An injured worker’s disability will generally be labeled as “temporary” or “permanent.” Within those categories, injuries are further defined according to how severe the resulting disability is. There are four disability class distinctions.
Temporary Disability
Temporary Total Disability (TTD) means that you are unable to work at all due to your disability and will receive the full workers’ compensation wage benefit temporarily.
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) means you are temporarily disabled but are capable of some level of work. TP disabilities are reported in percentages. For instance, disabilities are generally classified as 25% (mild), 50% (moderate), and 75% (marked). Your wage benefit would be determined in part by your disability distinction.
It’s important to note that temporary disabilities can be determined permanent if they persist longer than a year after the initial incident. Once the injured worker reaches a point of “maximum medical improvement” doctors may determine that an injury is “permanent.”
Permanent Disability
Permanent Total Disability (PTD) means that your disability has restricted you from being able to work and there is no limit on how long you can receive workers’ compensation benefits.
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) means that your disability limits your ability to earn wages, though you can go back to work with some restrictions. Therefore, you may receive benefits, but they will not meet the maximum limits set by workers’ compensation regulations.
Like temporary disability, these labels are also broken down into marked, moderate, and mild classifications. The level of permanent disability is used to determine both the benefit rate and the amount of time the injured worker will be entitled to ongoing benefits.
Learn More About Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Following your injury, you should focus on your recovery instead of worrying about whether or not you’ll receive the correct workers’ compensation benefits. The attorneys at Lewis & Lewis are well-versed in all types of workers’ compensation claims. Our team can work with you and your doctors to ensure you are receiving the maximum benefits you’re entitled to. Get in touch with our office today to discuss your case.
