Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)

Experiencing a permanent partial disability due to a work-related injury can significantly impact your life. While the Minnesota Workers' Compensation system may seem intimidating, it is designed to provide necessary support to individuals dealing with such disabilities. Understanding the criteria and processes to secure PPD benefits is key to ensure you receive the necessary support during this pivotal time.

Overview of Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits are intended to compensate an injured worker for impairment of a bodily function or permanent loss. It is not connected to wage loss or one's ability to work. In Minnesota, injured workers are not entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, or loss of enjoyment of life as are part of other injury claims.

To qualify for PPD benefits, you must prove that a permanent impairment exists as a result of your work injury, supported by medical documentation from your treating physician. Minnesota has established guidelines which eliminate subjective complaints of pain but instead use objective findings (functional test results) to assign a percentage to the body as a whole of the injured body part(s). Since 1984, these guidelines have changed with the times. However, it still remains that the guidelines in place on the date of injury govern.

Although there is no Minnesota law stating that maximum medical improvement (MMI) must be reached before PPD benefits can be paid, generally it is not. When an employee has the ability for further improvement of a work injury, giving it a PPD rating would be premature.

Examples of Permanent Partial Disabilities

Permanent partial disabilities can arise from a range of work-related injuries and impact different body parts and functions. Some common examples include:

• Amputation: The loss of a limb, such as a finger, hand, toe, or foot, can severely restrict a worker's ability to perform their job or engage in daily activities.

• Loss of vision: Partial loss of vision in one or both eyes can affect a person's safety and performance in roles requiring keen eyesight.

• Hearing loss: Significant hearing impairment due to exposure to loud noises in the workplace can impact communication abilities and job performance.

• Back injuries: Conditions like herniated discs or spinal injuries that result in chronic pain can limit a worker's range of motion and ability to lift, bend, or stand for extended periods.

• Joint injuries: Permanent damage to joints, such as knees or shoulders, may lead to restricted movement and chronic discomfort, affecting job duties and overall quality of life.

Each of these disabilities can have varying degrees of impact, and the Minnesota Workers' Compensation system has specific guidelines to evaluate and compensate for these injuries.

Determining Permanent Partial Disability Benefits

Determining the amount of PPD benefits you may be entitled to involves evaluating the extent of your permanent impairment according to the body part injured, diagnosis, treatment and range of motion. Once obtained, the Minnesota Rules are used to receive a percentage to the body as a whole. Once that percentage is determined, that percentage is placed in a formula which produces a dollar amount.

Collaborating with a knowledgeable workers' compensation attorney like Todd Gardner can help keep your case on the right track and increase your chances of receiving the correct assessment and benefits owed to you.

Steps in Filing a Workers' Compensation Claim for Permanent Partial Disability Benefits

Navigating the process for claiming Permanent Partial Disability benefits can be intricate, but understanding the following steps may alleviate some of the stress involved:

1. Report your injury: Inform your employer about the injury as soon as possible, as delays can impact your eligibility for benefits.

2. Seek medical attention: Ensure you receive proper medical care and keep comprehensive records of all treatments related to your injury.

3. File a workers' compensation claim: Submit the required documentation to your employer for them to report the incident to their workers' compensation insurance carrier.

4. Obtain a PPD evaluation: After reaching maximum medical improvement, consult a medical professional for an evaluation of your permanent disability.

5. Consult an attorney: Call, text or e-mail an experienced workers' compensation attorney like Todd Gardner to thoroughly evaluate your claim and rights.

6. Obtain a PPD determination: After reaching maximum medical improvement as indicated from your primary treating physician, they will assign your permanent disability rating.

7. Medical evaluation: The insurance company may require a medical examination to assess the extent of your disability. 

8. Receive benefits: If qualified, you will receive PPD benefits that compensate for the permanent impairment of a bodily function or permanent loss.

9. Follow-up: Continually communicate updates about your medical condition and employment status with both your attorney, employer and the insurance provider.

How Our Firm Can Help

At Gardner Law Office, LLC, we are dedicated to advocating for injured workers in all of Minnesota, including Minneapolis, St. Paul, Roseville, Edina, Blaine, Eden Prairie, Brooklyn Center, Bloomington, Woodbury, Fridley and beyond into greater Minnesota. With nearly 25 years of experience, our team will guide you through your workers' compensation claim. Call or text us today at 763-574-7522.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Permanent Partial Disability Benefits last?

• PPD benefits are generally a one-time payment, considered owed upon the ending of temporary total disability (TTD) payments, which must be paid within 30 days but may be discounted by present value up to a maximum of 5%.

• However, an employee can elect to receive installment payments of PPD at the same dollar amount and time interval as TTD was being paid up to where the full PPD benefit amount is reached. In this case, there is no discount.

Can I receive other benefits while on PPD?

• Yes, in some cases, individuals may be eligible for other forms of workers' compensation benefits concurrently, depending on the specifics of their situation. However, PPD cannot be collected by an employee while they are receiving TTD payments.

What should I do if my PPD benefits are denied?

• If your claim for Permanent Partial Disability benefits is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision within a certain timeframe. Consulting a seasoned workers' compensation attorney is crucial to navigate the appeal process effectively.