How Much Does Workers' Compensation Pay?
If you are involved in a workplace injury, you will likely wonder about the compensation that is available to you. You may think, how will I replace my lost income if I can't work anymore? How much of my medical bills will be covered? Will I be entitled to any compensation for my permanent injuries? In all of these circumstances, workers' compensation benefits may be available to you.
You are entitled to temporary disability benefits (TD) if your work-related injury prohibits you from going back to work. Typically, temporary disability benefits are equal to two-thirds of your average weekly wage. Some employees, such as firefighters, safety officers, and teachers, are entitled to increased benefits. You are eligible for temporary disability benefits if your treating doctor has taken you off work, or if your treating doctor assigns work restrictions that your employer cannot accommodate. However, there is a 104-week cap for temporary disability benefits in most cases.
Your employer's insurance company is responsible for paying for the medical treatment you need to recover from your industrial injury. Settlement of your case can include lifetime future medical care for all injured body parts, at no cost to you. In some circumstances, the insurance company may offer a lump sum payout instead of the future medical care, and you can use this money to treat your injuries through your own insurance.
If your workplace injury causes permanent symptoms, loss of function, or decreased ability to compete in the open labor market, you are entitled to permanent disability benefits (PD). Each permanent disability is converted into a "PD rating," which is a percentage that translates to a dollar value. Permanent disability benefits can be paid biweekly.
Unfortunately, permanent disability benefits can be limited, especially when compared to lawsuits for injuries outside of the workplace. Benefit amounts are set by law, and they are dependent upon your doctors' reports. There is no entitlement to money for pain and suffering.
It can be difficult and confusing to understand and take full advantage of the benefits available to you. A knowledgeable attorney can maximize the amount you receive. Attorneys at GEK Law are available for a free consultation to discuss the benefits you are entitled to after a workplace injury.
