Permanent Partial Disability Benefits in Connecticut
If a work injury leaves you with a lasting impairment, you may be entitled to permanent partial disability benefits.
Located in East Granby, CT, the Law Offices of Mark Merrow works with injured workers across Hartford County and surrounding areas to help them understand how these benefits are calculated and what can affect the outcome.
In many cases, the issue is not whether benefits are available—but whether they are being calculated correctly.
What Are Permanent Partial Disability Benefits?
Permanent partial disability benefits are paid when an injury results in a lasting impairment to a body part.
These benefits are based on an impairment rating, which is intended to reflect the extent of permanent damage.
However, what many injured workers don’t realize is that compensation may be based on the
total impairment to the body part, not just the portion caused by the most recent injury.
Total Impairment and Why Ratings Matter
When a workers’ comp claim is contested, the case becomes disputed. This usually means it may move toward a formal hearing before a workers’ compensation Administrative Law Judge.
At this point, most people are trying to figure out what happens after a workers comp denial and whether they need to take action right away.
The answer depends on your situation, but timing and documentation can make a difference in how your case moves forward.
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How Impairment Ratings Are Determined
Doctors often use American Medical Association (AMA) guidelines when assigning impairment ratings.
However, these guidelines are not always straightforward.
They may involve:
Different methods for evaluating the same injury
Whole person impairment ratings
Regional or body-part-specific ratings
Connecticut workers’ compensation law does not recognize whole person ratings, which means these may need to be converted properly before being applied.
This is one of the areas where confusion—and mistakes—can happen.
How We Help Evaluate Impairment Ratings
Understanding whether an impairment rating is accurate can make a significant difference in your claim.
That typically includes:
Reviewing medical opinions
Looking at how the impairment rating was determined
Evaluating total impairment
Determining whether all contributing factors were considered
Identifying discrepancies
Recognizing when ratings may not align with Connecticut standards
Providing a clear explanation
Helping you understand what the rating means and whether it should be questioned
The goal is to make sure you understand what is being offered before making a final decision.
Why Work With the Law Offices of Mark Merrow
Permanent partial disability claims often come down to details that are not immediately obvious.
At the Law Offices of Mark Merrow, clients work directly with an attorney who focuses on workers’ compensation cases and provides clear, candid guidance about what matters in their situation.
Located in East Granby, CT, the office works with injured workers across Hartford County and the Hartford, New Haven, Norwich, Waterbury, and New Britain areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a permanent partial disability rating?
It is a percentage assigned by a doctor that reflects the level of permanent impairment to a body part.
Can my rating be challenged?
In some cases, yes. It depends on how the rating was determined and whether it reflects total impairment.
Do prior injuries affect my benefits?
They can, but they should be evaluated correctly as part of the overall impairment.
What happens if I accept a low rating?
Once approved, it may be difficult to change, which is why it’s important to understand it before agreeing.
Common Issues With Permanent Partial Disability Claims
These claims often involve more than just accepting a doctor’s number.
Common issues include:
- Ratings that only reflect the recent injury
- Failure to account for total impairment
- Incorrect application of AMA guidelines
- Misunderstanding how ratings affect long-term benefits
Once a voluntary agreement is signed and approved, it may be difficult or impossible to correct these issues later.
Questions About Your Impairment Rating?
If you’ve been given an impairment rating and aren’t sure whether it reflects your full condition, it may help to review it before moving forward.
Located in East Granby, CT, the Law Offices of Mark Merrow works with injured workers across Hartford County and surrounding areas.
You can call during business hours or send a message anytime.