Work restrictions after an injury on the job often mean that someone has to temporarily take time off work or find other things to do during their shifts. Broken bones, head injuries and even repetitive stress injuries can stop someone from doing their standard job functions.
Most workers who have to temporarily stop doing certain tasks will regain full function. However, a few workers may have permanent consequences that keep them from doing the same work they did prior to their injury or diagnosis. How does Ohio workers’ compensation protect those who can’t earn the same wage after an injury or work required medical condition?
Workers can qualify for permanent total or permanent partial disability
Disability benefits through workers’ compensation replace some of the wages of worker would have earned. Temporary disability benefits will cover missed wages during someone’s medical leave, but those benefits stop when the doctor overseeing the treatment declares that the patient can go back to work.
When a worker cannot go back to work or can’t do the same skilled tasks they once did, permanent disability benefits may help. Permanent total disability is only available to those who cannot work at all anymore. Permanent partial disability benefits apply to those who can’t find the same work because they are incapable of doing the same work they once did.
Permanent partial disability benefits will cover some of your lost wages and can help compensate those whose earning potential decreases after an injury on the job. Connecting with these benefits usually requires demonstrating your need through medical and work records.