How is Permanent Partial Disability defined?

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) refers to an injury to part of an individual's body that is both permanent and disabling, making the person unable to function normally. A person with a PPD may be eligible for disability benefits. The amount of the benefits is determined by the percentage rating of his or her disability.

PPD - Ability to Work

Generally, a person with a PPD may not be able to perform the same work he or she was doing prior to the injury; however, he or she may be able to do an alternate type of work. Loss of the ability to do former work may reduce the income earning capacity of the individual; this reduction is compensated by PPD benefits.

The determination of a PPD is usually based on an independent medical examination (IME). The IME can determine the level of damage and how this affects the ability to work. The level of disability is given a rating. After receiving an appropriate rating, the disabled worker may receive PPD benefits regularly.

Calculating PPD Benefits

PPD benefits are calculated by multiplying two thirds of a worker's average weekly salary with the PPD percentage and a certain number of weeks. The number of weeks depends on the body part that was injured. For example, if the worker's right leg was injured, the number of weeks used in the calculation is 175.

Therefore the PPD benefits formula is:

PPD benefit = PPD Percentage × 2/3 Average Weekly Income × Number of Weeks

When to Claim PPD Benefit

An individual may claim a PPD benefit only if his or her medical treatment for the injured body party has reached a point where further improvement cannot be achieved. This ultimate point must be verified by the treating physician(s). A functional capacity evaluation must be done by the physical therapist who rates the injured body part. Subsequently the insurer or employer must agree to the rating.

Benefits are paid weekly; however, it is possible for a lump sum to be paid out if the injured worker agrees to a sizeable discount in the total amount.

Talk with an experienced disability attorney to further discuss permanent partial disability benefits.