Worker’s compensation is a complex field of law, with many terms and phrases that are foreign to most non-lawyers. Work comp attorneys go to law school for years to learn and understand the intricacies that go into a work comp claim. As an injured employee, you’re not expected to have the same level of understanding as an attorney. However, it’s generally a good idea to have a passing understanding of the terms that get thrown around during a work comp proceeding. In this article, we are going to define some of the most common terms and phrases you will likely hear at some point throughout the course of your worker’s compensation claim.
Compensable Injury
A compensable injury is an injury that is eligible for work comp benefits. There are several criteria that have to be met in order for an injury to be considered compensable.
Disability Benefits
Disability benefits are the specific monetary reward you receive for your injury. There are four main categories of disability benefits:
- Permanent Total Disability
- Permanent Partial Disability
- Temporary Total Disability
- Temporary Partial Disability
For more on each of these benefit types, see this article.
Independent Medical Exam
An independent medical exam is a routine aspect of most work comp claims in which the injured worker is examined by a neutral third-party doctor to assess the extent of the employees injuries.
Qualified Rehabilitation Consultant
A qualified rehabilitation consultant (QRC) is a professional whose job it is to help injured employees return to work via vocational rehabilitation techniques. Read our previous article for more in-depth information on qualified rehabilitation consultants.
Hey Workers offers free and confidential help to Minnesotans who have sustained injuries on the job or on the road. If you are confused by the work comp claims process, contact us today and we’ll connect you with work comp attorneys and injury doctors in your area who can assist you with all aspects of your injury claim. Call 844-Hey-Workers today to get the medical and legal help you need after an injury. Your call is completely free and 100% confidential!
