Permanent Partial Disability for Workers' Comp in Ohio

What is Permanent Partial Disability?

If a work accident has caused permanent pain, loss of range of motion, decreased strength, or other ongoing symptoms, you are entitled to a permanent partial disability award. The amount of a PPD award varies depending on the severity of the injury. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury on the job that caused permanent damage, you need to know your rights. Cincinnati Workers’ Compensation attorney Mark L. Newman has over 30 years of experience protecting injured workers and helping them obtain the PPD award they are entitled to. 

When Can You File an Application for Permanent Partial Disability?

• An application for permanent partial disability can be filed 26 weeks from the date you last received payment of temporary total or wage loss compensation; OR
• 26 weeks from the date of injury if no compensation was paid in the claim. 

How Does Permanent Partial Disability Work in Ohio?

When a PPD application is filed, the BWC will schedule you for an independent medical exam. 

Your percentage of permanent partial impairment is initially based on the findings of the independent medical exam. Following the exam, the BWC will issue a tentative order finding a percentage of permanent partial impairment that you are entitled to for your injury. 

Injured workers receive two weeks of PPD compensation for every 1 percent of permanent partial impairment. For example, a 10 percent PPD award entitles an injured worker to 20 weeks of permanent partial disability compensation. A PPD award is paid at the rate of 66 ⅔ percent of the injured worker’s average weekly wage in a one-time lump sum payment. Even though a PPD award is paid in a lump sum payment, the award is not a settlement of your claim. In fact, payment of a PPD award extends the life of your claim for an additional 5 years.

What If I Don’t Agree With the Impairment Rating?

If you disagree with the BWC’s determination of your percentage of permanent partial disability, you can file an objection within 20 days of receiving the BWC tentative order. If an objection is filed, the PPD issue will be scheduled for a hearing before the Industrial Commission of Ohio. The Industrial Commission will consider all of the medical evidence and make a determination on the percentage of permanent partial disability. Once the Industrial Commission makes a final determination, the BWC will pay the permanent partial disability award.

Why Do I Need an Attorney for Permanent Partial Disability?

Having an experienced Ohio workers’ compensation attorney such as Mark Newman can help ensure the worker receives the maximum amount of compensation possible. Mark can file an objection, obtain medical evidence to support your permanent partial application, and represent you at the Industrial Commission hearing to be sure you get the maximum PPD award you are entitled to. 

Mark Newman handles these claims on a contingency fee basis. This means he only charges an attorney fee for his services if he is successful in getting you a permanent partial disability award.

Contact Cincinnati Attorney Mark L. Newman Today

If you received permanent injuries due to a work-related incident, having a qualified attorney on your side can help you secure the benefits you’re entitled to. Cincinnati workers’ comp attorney Mark L. Newman has the experience you need to protect your rights as a worker and obtain the permanent partial disability benefits you deserve. To learn more about PPD or to schedule a consultation, give us a call at (513) 533-2009 or fill out our online intake form today.