Southern California Accident Blog

How Do You Know if You Have a Permanent Disability?

If you have been hurt on the job or suffered from a work-related illness, you are probably wondering what constitutes a permanent disability.  According to the California Division of Workers’ Compensation, the physician is the one who decides if your work injury or illness has resulted in a permanent disability.

If your physician believes that your injury or illness is not likely to change, the possibility of a permanent disability will be evaluated.   However, your doctor will look into other factors that may have led to your permanent disability, other than your work injury.  For example, your medical provider will evaluate whether a past injury or illness could have led to your condition.

After the doctor determines that you are permanently disabled, his or her report will be turned into a PD rating.  It is the PD rating that is used to calculate your workers’ comp benefits.  The date of your injury and other issues will be taken into consideration.

Workers compensation benefits can provide much needed income when you become disabled.  However, the workers compensation process can be overwhelming.  An experienced Los Angeles workers compensation attorney can help you with the process of obtaining benefits.  Contact Steinberg & Spencer Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888 for more information.