With all the different types of workers’ compensation and SSDI, it’s hard to know what applies to your case. An experienced SSDI attorney can help you learn more about your claim options within the SSDI limitations.
Essentially permanent partial disability refers to someone who will be unable to work for an extended period of time. The shortest standard time frame of recovery in these cases is about 250 weeks, which is nearly 5 years. In that time you should recover and have a job skill to put to use.
There are even some instances where you may be able to receive help in training for a new career. A lawyer will be able to spell out what options are available to you and how to best communicate with the SSDI office and your workers’ compensation representative.
Permanent Disability
There are two types of permanent disability. The more common permanent total disability in which a doctor rules that it is unreasonable for you to return to work ever. Then the lesser common, permanent partial disability.
Permanent partial disability has two types that come with it, either scheduled or unscheduled loss. But both show that the disability will impact you for the rest of your life, but not leave you unable to work. The most common injuries associated with a permanent partial disability is the loss of limb or sensory perception.
Losing a limb does not mean that you’ll never work again. But it does mean that you might not be able to continue your career. You will likely have to relearn how to do everyday things such as doing the dishes or even signing your name.
If you believe that you fit the bill for either type of permanent disability, get in touch with an SSDI attorney as soon after your accident as possible. Don’t let an insurance company hold up your claim.
Differences Between Disability and Impairment
Scheduled Loss
Scheduled loss is the loss of a limb or functional body part because of a workplace injury. These injuries are usually part of larger workplace accidents or catastrophic injuries. Wisconsin has a set schedule that applies to each lost body part. Not only does it allow the person time to heal, but it gives them a more stable expectation from SSDI.
You can receive these benefits even if you are able to work and even if you don’t have a pay decrease. Amputation and loss of body part are traumatic events.
Losing an arm or leg at the hip or shoulder will result in 500 weeks of benefits. Losing a hand will result in 400 weeks, while the loss of a foot is typically 250 weeks. Eye removal is 275 weeks of benefits, while the loss of vision in one eye is 250 weeks. Finally, the total loss of hearing provides 330 weeks of benefits.
There are extensive guides for losing things such as a finger or toe, but you should discuss even these smaller matters with an SSDI attorney.
Unscheduled Loss
When it comes to losing any body part not listed on the scheduled loss list, you’ll likely be eligible for unscheduled loss benefits. That means that your doctor will give you a rating based on your impairment. That impairment rating will directly impact your benefits.
The unscheduled loss will receive the impairment rating in the form of a percentage of up to 1,000 weeks of benefits. The most commonly seen unscheduled loss is back injury.
If a back injury leaves you severely disabled, a doctor may give you a 20% rating. This rating is then multiplied by 1,000 as (1,000 x 0.20) and would result in 200 weeks of unscheduled loss benefits.
There are other aspects considered as well, such as your ability to earn up to 85% of your wages after the injury. Usually, a lawyer will bring in a vocational expert to assess your case. They will then work to determine your ability to earn wages similar to what you had before the injury.
Contact An SSDI Attorney For Help
Get in touch with an experienced SSDI attorney right away for help with a workers’ compensation claim. Insurance company disputes can take weeks or even months, and in that time you should worry about your recovery.
Call Tabak Law for a free case review now. With over 45 years of experience in helping people with SSDI claims, you can be sure that they’ll be able to help you. A free case review can help you learn more about your resolution options, medical care options, and what to expect from your SSDI claim.