Suppose you are seeking disability benefits through your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. In that case, the amount of wages you receive is based, in part, on the severity of your injuries and how long you will be out of work while you recover. There are four basic categories of wage benefits, and TTD is one of them.
Overview of TTD
TTD stands for temporary total disability. TTD means that a worker’s injuries have left them totally disabled and unable to work, but only for a temporary amount of time. If you receive TTD benefits, a portion of your wages, such as 70 percent, will be paid until you have recovered from your disability and are able to return to your previous job.
In addition to TTD, examples of benefits include:
- Temporary partial benefits are for when you are partially disabled for a short amount of time. With a temporary partial injury, you may be able to work another job or work part-time. You would receive a wage for the job you are able to perform and a percentage of your previous salary to compensate for the difference in wages.
- Permanent total disability covers instances where you suffer permanent injuries and cannot return to your previous job. These benefits pay a portion of your wages for life, or until retirement, depending on your state’s workers’ compensation laws.
- Permanent partial benefits compensate you for a set period of time for permanent injuries that do not prevent you from eventually going back to your job. Examples of permanent partial injuries may include loss of a finger or an eye injury.
You May Also Be Eligible for Medical Benefits and More
What TTD means is that you can receive compensation for your wages while you recover from your workplace injury. However, if you suffered injuries on the job, you likely have other expenses as well.
Other Benefits Workers’ Compensation Provides
In addition to disability benefits, you may also recover medical benefits and the costs of rehabilitation. A decedent’s spouse, children, and dependents can receive death benefits following their work-related passing.
In a workers’ compensation claim, medical benefits cover all of the costs related to your medical care. This may include surgeries, long-term physical therapy, hospitalizations, nursing care, and more. If you need vocational rehabilitation to learn how to perform your job with your disability, your claim can include those costs.
Injuries Workers’ Compensation Covers
Nearly 3 million American workers were involved in non-fatal workplace accidents in 2017, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Workers’ compensation covers most injuries suffered during the performance of your job. Examples may include:
- Burns
- Cuts
- Loss of a limb
- Falls
- Head injuries
- Neck and spinal injuries
- Car accident injuries
- Occupational illnesses
According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), workers’ compensation also covers workplace injuries caused by acts of violence, terrorism, or natural disasters.
Working with an Attorney Can Help
If you want workers’ compensation benefits, you likely want to do all that you can to receive a fair settlement that covers your expenses. An attorney can also help with the work that goes into a workers’ compensation claim so that you can turn your energy and attention toward healing.
What a Lawyer Can Do for You
According to the American Bar Association (ABA), a workers’ compensation lawyer can:
- Review your medical records.
- Identify vocational and medical experts who can testify on your behalf.
- Keep you updated about the status of your claims.
- Handle all communication about your settlement or any workers’ compensation conferences or hearings.
An attorney will try to help you win the highest possible settlement for your accident. If your employer or their insurance provider attempts to deny your claims, a lawyer can assist you through a workers’ compensation appeal.
Filing a Lawsuit, if Necessary
A lawyer can help you file a lawsuit, but not against your employer. If you suffered injuries because a third party acted negligently, you may be able to seek additional damages, such as awards for pain and suffering, in civil court. Your lawyer can help determine if a third party’s actions contributed to your accident.
Call Ben Crump Law, PLLC for Legal Help
If you want help with your workers’ compensation claims, contact the offices of Ben Crump Law, PLLC. We can help you seek a settlement for your TTD, medical costs, and other benefits. Call (800) 603-4224 to speak to our team about your case.