(864) 582-0416 Individuals who sustain severe injuries at work, especially a spinal injury or injuries to different body parts, may be eligible to claim permanent disability benefits through the workers’ compensation system. These benefits can cover medical costs related to your work injury and 500 weeks of partial replacement for lost wages and future earnings, except that paralysis and severe brain injury cases can provide compensation for life. If you’ve suffered a serious injury and are unlikely to regain full mobility, it could be time to consult an attorney who understands how the system works.
At Holland & Usry, we can answer any questions you may have about Spartanburg permanent disability workers’ compensation claims. We can also help you understand how the disability rating assigned to you by your physician can affect your settlement. To receive support and guidance from an attorney who cares about you, contact our office to schedule a complimentary case review today.
Permanent disability occurs when an injury heals but leaves you with limited mobility. Some injuries, such as herniated discs, pinched spinal nerves, or traumatic brain injuries, can result in total disability. This means you won’t be able to resume any job you’re qualified to do. It’s different from Social Security disability, which gives benefits when you can’t work at all. Other injuries may only result in partial disability, and you will eventually be able to return to work. A Spartanburg attorney can clarify which type of permanent disability you will claim workers’ compensation benefits for.
After the authorized workers’ comp physician releases you from care, they issue a report diagnosing your disability based on American Medical Association guidelines. The physician issues an impairment rating, which an experienced Spartanburg workers’ comp attorney can convert into a workers’ comp permanent disability rating. Several factors affect this rating, including:
During a FREE case review, a Spartanburg permanent disability lawyer can help you understand what to expect during the workers’ compensation claims process.
You can challenge impairment and disability ratings and request a second opinion if you believe your impairment extends beyond the physician’s evaluation. If you choose to dispute your impairment rating, your attorney can notify the insurance carrier handling your claim. They will then negotiate with the insurer for a second opinion for an adequate rating. If negotiations fail, both sides will present supporting evidence to a workers’ compensation commissioner who will issue a ruling.
A permanent disability will affect you for the rest of your life. Working with an experienced Spartanburg attorney who is well-versed in workers’ compensation claims involving lifelong disabilities is crucial to ensure you receive adequate benefits.
Regardless of whether your permanent disability is partial or total, you can receive payments through the workers’ compensation system to cover medical expenses and partial lost wages. However, receiving benefits is not automatic. An authorized physician will assess the severity of your injury and issue an impairment rating. An attorney who understands how the system works can guide you through the process and advocate on your behalf.
If you have questions about Spartanburg permanent disability workers’ compensation claims, contact Holland & Usry today to schedule a FREE case review.
