Suppose you’ve suffered a work-related injury in Illinois that has left you with permanent impairments but hasn’t completely prevented you from working. In that case, you may be eligible for Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits. Understanding PPD benefits and how they can support you as you explore your options is essential.
What are Permanent Partial Disability Benefits?
Permanent Partial Disability benefits are a form of compensation available to workers who have sustained permanent impairments or disabilities due to a work-related injury or illness. Unlike Permanent Total Disability benefits, which are awarded when an individual is entirely unable to work, PPD benefits are provided when the individual can still work but has suffered a permanent loss of function or impairment.
Understanding the Types of Permanent Partial Disability:
In Illinois, Permanent Partial Disability benefits are categorized into two main types: scheduled and unscheduled disabilities.
Scheduled Disabilities:
Scheduled disabilities refer to injuries involving specific body parts listed in the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act. These body parts include arms, legs, hands, feet, eyes, ears, fingers, toes, and certain internal organs. Compensation for scheduled disabilities is predetermined based on the extent of the impairment and the body part affected.
Unscheduled Disabilities:
Unscheduled disabilities encompass injuries not explicitly listed in the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act. These injuries typically involve impairments to the spine, neck, shoulders, back, and other body parts not covered under the scheduled disabilities section. Compensation for unscheduled disabilities is determined based on factors such as the extent of the impairment, its impact on the individual’s ability to work, and vocational factors.
Applying for Permanent Partial Disability benefits can be complex, involving medical evaluations, documentation of the extent of your impairment, and assessments of your ability to work. Ackerman Law Office is here to help guide you through each step of the process with care and expertise. Please contact us for a free consultation.