What Types Of Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Available?
For more information about workers’ compensation benefits, contact our law firm at 912-681-BARR (2277) — or contact us online . Consultations are free *.
Income Benefits
Most injuries are not considered “catastrophic.” If you experienced a noncatastrophic injury, you are entitled to income benefits and medical benefits. There are three types of income benefits:
- Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits — If you were injured after July 1, 2016 and unable to return to work, you will receive two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to $800 per week for up to 400 weeks.
- Temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits — If you are injured, but able to return to work in a position that pays less than your pre-injury work, you are generally entitled to two-thirds of the difference between your pre- and post-injury wages, up to $533 per week. This benefit lasts maximum of 350 weeks.
- Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits — If you were permanently injured but still able to work, you are eligible to be paid a monetary benefit based on the extent (%) of your disability (often referred to as your “impairment rating”).
A catastrophic injury is one that generally leaves you permanently disabled and unable to perform any type of work. Common examples include paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, blindness, deafness, the amputation of a limb, or any other injury so severe that it prevents you from being able to perform your prior work.
In these cases, there is no 400-week limit on your benefits. You will receive two-thirds of your average weekly wages as long as your disability remains catastrophic.
Medical Benefits
Workers who are injured on the job are entitled to medical benefits to cover the costs of treating their injuries.
- Choosing a doctor — You must select from a list of authorized doctors provided by your employer. If you do not like the doctor you select from this list, called the “posted panel of physicians”, you may select another doctor from the list. You may change doctors one time and are entitled to a second opinion. Your attorney can help you with this. If your employer does not have a list, we need to know immediately.
- Treatments covered — All reasonable medical bills are covered if authorized by your doctor. This includes all prescription drugs, surgeries and physical therapy. Certain personal expenses incurred while obtaining medical treatment — like mileage — should also be reimbursed.
Physical injuries often make it painful or impossible to work and enjoy daily activities. Many people find themselves struggling mentally and emotionally. Workers’ compensation medical benefits are available to cover the costs of psychiatric counseling.
Death Benefits
When employees are killed in work-related accidents, their dependents — such as spouses and minor or dependent children — are entitled to benefits. This includes burial expenses and two-thirds of the deceased worker’s average weekly wage up to $800 per week. Surviving spouses with no children can receive this benefit — up to $320,000 — until they remarry.