Shoulder Injuries: Temporary vs. Permanent Disability Benefits

Navigating the complexities of disability benefits for shoulder injuries can be daunting. Know the difference between temporary and permanent disability benefits to make informed decisions. 

What Are Shoulder Injuries?

Shoulder injuries can occur in various forms, including rotator cuff tears, dislocations, and fractures. They can be caused by repetitive movements, sudden trauma, or the lifting of heavy objects. The severity can range from mild to debilitating, affecting your ability to work and impacting your quality of life.

Temporary Disability Benefits for Shoulder Injuries

Temporary disability benefits are designed to provide financial support while you are unable to work and are in the process of healing. If you’re diagnosed with a shoulder injury that is expected to heal, you may be eligible for temporary disability benefits. These benefits cover a portion of your lost wages and are often paid bi-weekly.

How Temporary Benefits Are Calculated

The amount you receive depends on various factors, such as your average weekly wage before the injury. Usually, you’ll receive approximately two-thirds of your gross average weekly wages up to a maximum amount determined by state law.

Duration of Temporary Benefits

Temporary disability benefits continue until you can return to work, or your medical condition reaches what is known as ‘Maximum Medical Improvement‘ (MMI). MMI means that your condition has stabilized, and no further improvement is expected, even with additional medical treatment.

Permanent Disability Benefits for Shoulder Injuries

Permanent disability benefits come into play when your shoulder injury leads to lasting impairment that affects your ability to earn a living.

Types of Permanent Disability Benefits

1. Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): This is for those whose injuries are severe but not completely incapacitating. You may still be able to work, but possibly not in the same capacity as before.
2. Permanent Total Disability (PTD): If your shoulder injury is so severe that you cannot return to any kind of work, you may be eligible for PTD benefits, which are often lifetime benefits.

Calculating Permanent Disability

The calculation for permanent disability benefits can be complex, involving factors like your age, occupation, and the severity of your impairment. It may include a lump-sum payment or ongoing payments to compensate for lost wages and reduced earning capacity.

Determining Temporary vs. Permanent Disability

Given that shoulder injuries can have different outcomes, it’s crucial to work with medical professionals for an accurate diagnosis and prognosis. Medical records, physical exams, and expert opinions will inform whether your case is deemed temporary or permanent disability. However, making sense of this information and applying it in legal terms is a different matter, which is where a Kansas City workers compensation attorney can offer critical guidance.

Why Consult with the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann?

Navigating the maze of workers’ compensation laws can be complex and overwhelming. Our attorneys specialize in these kinds of cases. With over three decades of experience and thousands of cases successfully handled, we can help you understand your rights and options.

If you have suffered a shoulder injury at work, it’s essential to consult with an attorney who has a deep understanding of workers’ compensation law. The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann offers free consultations and is available to take your call 24/7. With our help, you can better navigate the complexities of temporary vs. permanent disability benefits and make informed decisions about your future.

Kansas City Workers Compensation Attorney

Don’t navigate this complex journey alone. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case and understand your best course of action. Reach out to a Kansas City workers compensation attorney at the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann today. Call 24/7, and let us put our 30-plus years of experience to work for you.