Workplace accidents happen all the time. And while most workers recover fully from their workplace-related injuries, some do not and continue to experience medical challenges that render them unable to work.
In the unfortunate event that your injuries aren’t ever going to heal, you may be eligible for permanent disability (PD) benefits under California workers’ compensation laws.
Injuries and illnesses that fall under permanent disability
Permanent disabilities come from all kinds of injuries, in all kinds of occupations
Here are some of the workplace-related injuries that are likely to result in a permanent disability:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Severe burns and scars
- Loss of a limb or fingers
- Spinal cord injuries
Types of permanent disabilities
Before understanding how much your permanent disability benefit is worth, it is important that you establish how much your injury will impact your ability to work. There are two types of permanent disability benefits:
- Permanent disability (TPD): These are for conditions that are totally disabling and likely to remain that way. For example, a TBI might fall under that category.
- Partial permanent disability (PPD): These are for conditions that are permanent but unlikely to totally prevent you from working. For example, losing part of your finger might fall into that category.
TPD benefits are uncommon because you have to be 100% disabled to qualify for them, but they are granted for severe cases.
A workplace injury can turn your life upside down. If you have been injured or diagnosed with a work-related illness, it is important that you understand the types of workers’ compensation benefits you are entitled to receive.