The worst workplace injuries force people to cease working entirely. They cause permanent, life-altering conditions from which people never recover. Individuals with brain injuries, spinal cord injuries and limb loss are sometimes incapable of continuing to work.
Others may have permanent symptoms that affect their careers and lives but don’t prevent them from working. They may simply move into lower-paid jobs or cease advancing their careers. Employees dealing with permanent medical challenges may be eligible for permanent partial disability benefits. Those workers may need help obtaining the right workers’ compensation benefits so that they don’t suffer long-term financial hardship.
What benefits are available?
Workers who develop permanent medical conditions and can still work another job may be eligible for two kinds of benefits. They may receive ongoing medical benefits to help them treat or manage their symptoms without any patient responsibility costs. They may also be eligible for permanent partial disability benefits.
Permanent partial disability benefits help cover the change in earning potential that accompanies the worker’s injury. Permanent partial disability benefits are sometimes paid as a lump-sum settlement or a weekly benefit. Workers may need help understanding their disability rating and negotiating for the best settlement possible.
It can be difficult to build the case for the maximum amount of benefits when a worker is already dealing with the stress of medical challenges and possibly financial hardship. Those who have appropriate support when pursuing workers’ compensation benefits for significant workplace injuries may improve their chances of optimizing their recovery. Fighting for the most compensation possible can help workers limit their losses when they get hurt on the job.