If you have suffered a work injury or occupational disease, you are eligible to file a Workers’ Compensation claim with the Washington Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). There are several different types of benefits to which you may be entitled, including permanent partial disability (PPD) awards. This is monetary payment that is made at the closure of your claim made to account for a permanent lack of function.

What are Permanent Partial Disability Benefits?

Permanent partial disability benefits consist of monetary payments made to a worker who suffered a permanent impairment as a result of a workplace injury or illness when their claim is closed. It is intended to compensate for injuries that cannot be improved with further medical treatment.

How is the Permanent Partial Disability Benefit Amount Determined?

The amount of permanent partial disability benefits that you will receive is based on several factors. These include the type of injury, the severity of the injury, and the date the injury occurred. Dollar values have been assigned to body parts by state law, and a medical provider must offer an opinion on the percentage disability of a body part for you to be eligible.

In the event the PPD award is more than three times the state’s average monthly wage you will receive a down payment amount with the balance of the award paid in monthly installments that are the equivalent of your time-loss compensation at the time your claim was closed.

Can You Appeal a Permanent Partial Disability Award?

If you believe your permanent partial disability benefits were calculated in error, you have the right to protest or appeal L&I’s decision within 60 days from the date the decision was received. It is important to consult legal help when taking this step.

Contact an Experienced Washington Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Pursuing permanent partial disability benefits can be complex and it is critical to have an attorney on your side who can guide you through the legal process. A skillful Workers’ Compensation attorney can assist you with filing an L&I claim and help ensure you obtain the maximum compensation to which you are entitled.

The Bellingham Workers’ Compensation attorneys at Robinson & Kole provide reliable representation to injured workers throughout Washington State and strive to secure the best possible results in each case. We welcome you to contact us for a free consultation by calling 360-671-8112 or by using our online contact form. Se habla Español.