Are You Entitled To Permanent Partial Disability Benefits?
If you have impairment or disability as the result of your injury, such as pain and restricted range of motion, you may be entitled to permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits. To get what you deserve, it is important to discuss your options with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer.
At the law firm of Bashein & Bashein in Cleveland, Ohio, we have been providing personalized legal services since 1949. We will work closely with you to determine what workers’ compensation benefits you need and then get to work on making it happen.
You need an experienced attorney on your side to make sure you have a favorable chance of getting the permanent partial disability benefits you deserve. To schedule a free consultation with a dedicated workers’ compensation attorney, contact us today.
Why Choose Bashein & Bashein to Support Your Disability Claim
- Our firm has over 20 years of experience representing injured people across Ohio. We have the skills and knowledge necessary to secure the benefits that you deserve.
- Our lawyers specialize in workers’ compensation claims and understand how difficult it can be to recover fair benefits. We will fight aggressively to recover your highest possible award.
- Healing from a permanent disability can be difficult. Our firm will handle all aspects of your workers’ compensation claim so that you can focus on matters important to your health and well-being.
What Is Permanent Partial Disability?
PPD benefits are typically paid when a worker is not totally disabled or can return to work in a different position or for lower pay. Employees can recover PPD benefits as part of their workers’ compensation claims. In Ohio, all businesses with at least one employee must carry workers’ compensation insurance. The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) oversees these claims.
This coverage provides benefits to workers who are hurt at work or while performing their job duties. PPD benefits are typically awarded when you develop a permanent impairment as a result of your workplace injury, but the disability is not considered “total.”
Below are a few examples of disabilities that may qualify for PPD benefits:
- Hearing loss
- Loss of one limb
- Vision loss in one eye
- Loss of range of motion
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Permanent nerve damage
- Serious back injuries
Your employer may seek to challenge these benefits in court. If they do, we will aggressively fight to preserve your right to these benefits. After all, it’s not your fault you were hurt on the job and you have every right to PPD benefits.
How Much Are Permanent Partial Disability Benefits Worth?
Ohio calculates PPD benefits using one of three different methods: scheduled losses; percentage loss; and an award for serious disfigurement. You may receive this compensation in weekly payments or one lump sum in special circumstances.
- Scheduled Loss: There is a state schedule of different injuries to various body parts, which helps determine the value of PPD benefits. If you suffered the loss of a limb, an extremity, or the use of an eye, you will receive an amount equal to the current average statewide weekly wage. You will receive these benefits for the number of weeks listed in the state schedule for the affected body part.
- Percentage Loss: If your disability does not involve the loss of scheduled body parts, you will receive PPD benefits based on a percentage of your overall disability. These benefits are equal to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to one-third of the statewide average weekly wage. You will receive these benefits for the number of weeks equal to your disability percentage times 200.
- Serious Disfigurement Award: If you suffer a serious disfigurement to your face or your head, the BWC may provide an award of up to $10,000. The BWC will decide what amount of compensation is fair based on your case.
Do You Need an Attorney for Your Disability Benefits Claim?
Being involved in a workplace accident can be a scary experience. If you develop a permanent disability, these incidents can also be life-changing. In these situations, you deserve fair compensation for the losses that you experienced.
While workers’ compensation claims may seem straightforward, they can be complex. Your employer may try to deny your claim for unfair reasons. You may receive a lower award offer than what you deserve.
At Bashein & Bashein, we can guide you through the claims process, protect your rights, and help you secure fair benefits. Our firm will help you gather evidence, prepare your paperwork, and engage in negotiations or appeals if necessary.
Contact an Attorney Today
If you are injured at work, you deserve fair compensation. At Bashein & Bashein, our attorneys will work diligently to secure the PPD benefits that you are entitled to receive.
To schedule your free initial consultation, call 216-771-3239 or toll-free 800-771-4457 or send us an e-mail.