There are several differing types of work comp disability benefits in the state of Minnesota – Temporary total disability, permanent total disability, temporary partial disability, and total partial disability. This article will discuss the primary types of disability benefits that an injured worker can get in Minnesota.
Temporary vs. Permanent Disability
Temporary disability means that the employee is still recovering, and is expected to get better. Permanent disability means that the employee’s condition is stable, and is not expected to improve. Permanent disability is sometimes referred to as a point of maximum medical improvement (MMI). A person at MMI is not necessarily fully recovered. MMI just means that the person is not expected to get any better.
Total vs. Partial Disability
Total disability means that the employee cannot work at any type of employment – he/she is completely disabled. Partial disability means that the employee has some sort of work capacity, perhaps the ability to perform sedentary or light duty work.
Permanent Impairment Benefits
These benefits are awarded if an employee is diagnosed with a permanent physical impairment based on guidelines developed by the American Medical Association. A permanent impairment is usually a limitation of use or restriction of motion in a body part.
As an example, let’s say that you injured your hand and have a permanent loss of strength and flexibility in that hand. A doctor, applying the AMA guidelines, might conclude that you have a 20% permanent impairment in that hand. Your state’s workers’ compensation law might provide for a $100,000 payment for a complete loss of use of a hand, so your permanent impairment would be worth $20,000 (100,000 x 20%). Some states also allow permanent impairment awards for scarring.
Get Help after Your Injury
Work comp laws are complicated. That’s why it’s always a good idea to talk with a qualified attorney if you are injured on the job. 844-Hey-Workers has a network of doctors and lawyers throughout Minnesota. Let us take care of your medical and legal needs after your accident.
