Suffering injuries in a workplace accident can prove devastating. Not only does it interfere with your ability to work, they can have a devastating effect on your quality of life, as well. Fortunately, workers’ comp benefits can cover the cost of medical treatment and pay for a percentage of your income while you recover. If you suffer permanent injuries, you may receive a one-time award that ends your employer’s responsibility to you.
A Waukegan attorney can advise on the assessment of impairment ratings which can significantly impact the benefits you access and how much compensation you may recover. Call us to learn more about this crucial step of the workers’ compensation case process.
The assessment of impairment ratings generally relies on the opinion of a medical care provider chosen by the workers’ compensation insurer. That provider will evaluate the worker to determine how their injuries impact them and their severity—either current or ongoing. This test may include a look at lost mobility and strength, how much pain the worker suffers when attempting to use the body part or carry out normal activities, and a look at what the worker’s potential recovery will look like.
In Illinois, each body part has a specific value. After an injury to that body part, employees can receive workers’ compensation benefits for a predetermined period of time linked to that body part.
In some cases, the care provider that conducts the impairment assessment may give a rating that the worker finds unfair or unrealistic, based on the limitations they face. In that case, they may need to work with a Waukegan lawyer to appeal that impairment assessment and get a rating that better fits their current capability.
Impairment ratings can depend on several factors, including:
In addition, a calculation of impairment ratings to determine the award for permanent injuries or disability may take into account the worker’s age and future potential earning capacity.
Impairment ratings can impact many factors around a workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ comp benefits generally continue until the worker returns to work or reaches maximum possible recovery. However, the impairment rating may impact the amount of time that the insurer will continue to pay out those benefits.
Permanent partial disability (PPD) awards provide compensation for permanent injuries that occurred at work. Workers have the right to compensation for their losses and their impact on their lives. PPD awards are generally based on the extent of the worker’s injuries, which is obtained through an impairment evaluation.
The assessment of impairment ratings process can prove more complex than anticipated. Unfortunately, some workers may not receive the full benefits they deserve. If you have questions about how impairment ratings are calculated or how your impairment rating may impact your benefits, a Waukegan lawyer can help you better understand how that evaluation takes place and what it may mean for you. At Schlack & Bassmaji, we are relentless in helping our clients understand their rights and fight to protect them. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help.
