You never know what can happen when you get into an accident at work. Even slips and falls can have serious consequences. When you work in construction or with heavy machinery, it’s not uncommon for accidents to result in losing the use of your limbs.
If this happens, workers’ compensation offers a lifeline for you and your family. Aside from covering your medical expenses, you may also be eligible for permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits.
Scheduled member disability benefits
Most states offer scheduled loss benefits, which are specifically for individuals who suffer a permanent injury or lose functional use of certain body parts. In Iowa, the list not only includes loss of use of limbs but also loss of hearing and permanent disfigurement.
Scheduled loss benefits apply to both total and partial loss of use. It doesn’t necessarily mean amputation of the limb. In the case of a hand injury, if you can no longer hold, grasp or grip items, you may be eligible for scheduled loss benefits.
Calculating workers’ comp payout for your injury
The total compensation you may receive depends on the injured body part, the percentage of loss of use and the number of weeks of compensation the state has set for it. Below are some of the eligible body parts and their compensation duration for Iowa workers:
- Thumb: 60 weeks
- Hand: 190 weeks
- Arm: 250 weeks
- Foot: 150 weeks
- Leg: 220 weeks
- Big toe: 40 weeks
- Eye: 140 weeks
- Hearing in one ear: 50 weeks
- Hearing in both ears: 175 weeks
- Permanent disfigurement of face or head: 150 weeks
If you only lose 50% of the functionality of your limbs, you multiply that percentage by the given number of weeks in the list. As such, a 50% partial loss of use of your foot means you may receive 75 weeks of PPD benefits.
Document your injuries to ensure fair compensation
Scheduled loss benefits can become complicated if you run into disputes over the level of impairment of your limbs. Having complete medical records and other documents to support your workers’ comp claims while consulting a legal professional for advice will help you receive the benefits you deserve. Legal guidance can help ensure you follow the necessary procedures and prevent denied claims.
