Workers’ Compensation: Do I Qualify for a Permanent Disability Settlement?
Your doctors may have initially believed your injuries would heal over time, but months of recovery have left you struggling to live a normal life. Medical treatment can only do so much, and the lasting effects of a workplace injury may result in a lifelong disability. If you find yourself in this situation, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, including permanent disability compensation.
However, insurance companies often prioritize their profits over your well-being, potentially minimizing or denying your disability to avoid paying you the compensation you deserve. If this happens, the experienced attorneys at E&L, LLP are ready to fight for your rights.
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(213) 213-0000
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I Eligible for Permanent Disability Benefits?
Eligibility for permanent disability benefits depends on the degree to which your injury limits your ability to work and function. Disabilities are classified as either temporary or permanent, with permanent benefits awarded for injuries that cause long-term or irreversible restrictions.
Even if your injury was initially expected to improve, the recovery process can stall, leaving you with lasting limitations. Permanent disability is further categorized into two classifications:
- Permanent Partial Disability: For individuals whose injuries reduce their earning capacity but do not completely eliminate it. For example, you may be unable to walk long distances or lift heavy objects.
- Permanent Total Disability: For the most severe disabilities, which prevent you from performing any work you could previously do. This classification may include life pension awards in addition to compensation payments.
A medical professional must determine whether you have reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)—the point at which further treatment will no longer improve your condition. The time it takes to reach MMI can vary widely.
Once MMI is established, you can begin the process of determining your eligibility for permanent disability benefits. This process may involve an independent medical evaluation requested by the insurance company. If you disagree with their assessment, you have the right to hire an independent examiner to provide a second opinion.
What Can I Recover Through a Permanent Disability Settlement?
The compensation you receive is determined by the percentage of disability assigned by your medical provider. While a 100% disability rating may lead to a significant settlement, even lower percentages can result in meaningful compensation for the hardships you’ve endured.
Individuals eligible for permanent disability benefits may recover:
- Medical Expenses: Including medications, equipment, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost Wages: For income you’ve missed due to your injury.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: To help you transition to a new line of work if necessary.
- Permanent Disability Benefits: For the lasting effects of your injury.
Unfortunately, insurance companies may attempt to dispute your disability rating or diminish your benefits. At E&L, LLP, we’re here to ensure you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve.
CALL OUR ATTORNEYS FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION
(213) 213-0000
Getting Started With E&L, LLP
In challenging times, E&L, LLP is here to stand by your side. Insurance companies often take advantage of injured workers, assuming they are too vulnerable to fight back. Our firm is dedicated to advocating for you and protecting your rights.
No Out-of-Pocket Costs:
We understand that financial concerns may make you hesitant to seek legal help. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis—you won’t pay us anything unless we secure a favorable settlement or jury award.
Client-Focused Advocacy:
At E&L, LLP, we treat our clients like family. We’ll never settle for less than what you deserve and will fight tirelessly to help you recover the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
CALL OUR ATTORNEYS FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION
(213) 213-0000
WE DO NOT GET PAID UNTIL YOU GET PAID. THAT IS OUR GUARANTEE.