How is Permanent Disability Calculated?

When it comes to workplace injuries and permanent disability, understanding how compensation is calculated is essential. Whether you’ve been injured on the job or are simply curious about the process, this blog post will shed light on how permanent disability is determined. Thomas F. Martin, PLC, is here to guide you through the intricacies of this crucial aspect of workers’ compensation law.

Calculating Permanent Disability

Permanent disability benefits are calculated based on various factors, including the nature and severity of the injury, the impact on your ability to work, California laws. To get a better understanding of the process, let’s break down the key components involved in calculating permanent disability:

Medical Evaluation

The first step in calculating permanent disability is a thorough medical evaluations. Qualified medical professionals assesses your condition and assigns an impairment rating based on guidelines established by the American Medical Association (AMA) 5^th Edition. This rating measures the extent of your physical or mental impairment resulting from the injury.

Impairment Rating

The impairment rating is typically expressed as a percentage, with higher percentages indicating more severe impairments and limitations. For example, in theory, a 50% impairment rating means that you have a 50% loss of function in the affected body part or system. This is called an Whole Person Impairment (WPI) rating.

Permanent Disability Formula

The WPI rating(s) are then entered into a specific formula used to calculate permanent disability benefits you are entitled to, and a set dollar amount predetermined by the State of California is then assigned. Factors such as the part of body, age, occupation are taken into consideration.

Adjustments and Multipliers

In some cases, the permanent disability benefits may be adjusted using multipliers depending on the effect of the “synergistic” effect of the injuries to multiple body parts.

Wage Replacement

Permanent disability benefits are designed to replace a portion of your future lost wages due to the permanent effects of the injuries. The amount you receive is typically a percentage of your average weekly wage at the time of the injury, subject to statutory maximums.

Consulting Thomas F. Martin, PLC

Navigating the intricacies of permanent disability calculations can be challenging, especially when you’re dealing with the physical and emotional stress of an injury. That’s where Thomas F. Martin, PLC, comes in. With over 30 years of experience, Mr. Martin can personally assist you every step of the way, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve.Understanding how permanent disability is calculated is essential for anyone involved in a workers’ compensation claim. It’s a complex process that involves medical evaluations, impairment ratings, and various formulas. With the guidance of Thomas F. Martin, PLC, you can navigate this process confidently, knowing that you have an experienced attorney legal by your side to secure the compensation you need to move forward after a workplace injury.

Contact us today for your free case evaluation! or simply call (714) 547-5025