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When you're injured at work in Mississippi, understanding the types of workers' compensation benefits available is crucial. Two main categories of benefits are temporary and permanent workers' compensation benefits, each serving different needs based on the severity and duration of the injury.
Temporary Workers' Compensation Benefits
Temporary benefits are designed to support injured workers during their recovery period. These benefits are further divided into two types:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): This benefit applies when an injury temporarily prevents an employee from performing any work duties. During this period, the worker receives compensation to cover a portion of their lost wages. TTD benefits continue until the worker can return to work or reaches maximum medical improvement (MMI), the point at which their condition is not expected to improve significantly with further treatment.
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): If an injured worker can return to work but at a reduced capacity or lower wage than before the injury, they may be eligible for TPD benefits. This compensation helps bridge the gap between the pre-injury wages and the reduced earnings due to the injury.
In Mississippi, the calculation of these benefits is typically based on a percentage of the worker's average weekly wage before the injury, subject to minimum and maximum limits set by the Mississippi Workers' Compensation Commission .
Permanent Workers' Compensation Benefits
Permanent benefits come into play when an injury leads to a lasting impairment or disability. These benefits are categorized into:
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD): PTD benefits are provided when an injury results in a total and permanent inability to work in any capacity. This form of compensation is limited to 450 weeks.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): For injuries that cause permanent damage but do not completely prevent the worker from working, PPD benefits are available. This includes cases like loss of a limb or reduced function of a body part. PPD benefits are often awarded based on the degree of impairment, as determined by a medical evaluation, and may be paid out as a lump sum or weekly payments.
The key distinction between temporary and permanent benefits is the expected duration and permanence of the worker's condition. Temporary benefits are for those expected to recover, while permanent benefits recognize a long-term or indefinite impact on the worker's ability to earn a living .
Conclusion
Navigating the workers' compensation system can be complex, especially when dealing with the nuances between temporary and permanent benefits. It's essential to understand your rights and options to ensure you receive the appropriate support during your recovery or adjustment to a new normal.
At the Eichelberger Law Firm, we're here to help you through every step of the workers' compensation process. If you've been injured at work in Mississippi, contact Jennie Eichelberger, a dedicated Mississippi workers' compensation lawyer, for personalized guidance tailored to your situation.