Visalia Temporary Disability Lawyers For Workers’ Comp Payments
A work injury can affect more than your health. If you cannot work, losing your income can create financial stress. California workers’ compensation may provide temporary disability (TD) benefits to replace part of your lost wages while you recover.
Since 1977, Mitchell & Powell, A Professional Law Corporation has helped injured workers in Visalia and throughout Tulare County. The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization certifies our attorneys as Workers’ Compensation Specialists. If your injury keeps you from working, we can explain your options and help you pursue available TD benefits.
Temporary Vs. Permanent Disability
Workers’ comp benefits offers both temporary and permanent disability benefits. TD benefits may apply if a work injury or illness keeps you from working. They help replace part of your lost income while you recover. Permanent disability benefits may apply if your injury causes lasting limitations.
TTD Vs. TPD: Which Do You Qualify For?
There are two types of TD benefits. Which one you receive depends on your doctor’s work restrictions:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): You may receive TTD if you cannot work because of a work-related injury or illness. It helps replace part of your lost wages while you recover.
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): You may receive TPD if you return to work with restrictions or reduced hours. It helps replace part of your lost wages while you work fewer hours.
Both types of benefits provide financial support while you recover and return to work.
Common Injuries That May Qualify
Many work-related injuries and illnesses may qualify for TD benefits if they affect your ability to work. To qualify, your doctor must determine that your injury limits your ability to work.
In Tulare County, common examples include:
- Agriculture: Machinery accidents, falls, lifting injuries and heat illness.
- Construction: Falls, equipment accidents and struck-by injuries.
- Warehouse work: Back injuries, lifting accidents and forklift incidents.
- Repetitive work: Carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive stress injuries.
These are only examples. Eligibility depends on your injury, your doctor’s work restrictions and your ability to work.
When Do TD Benefits Begin?
Once you are approved for TD benefits, payments usually begin after a three-day waiting period, though exceptions may apply.
Most workers receive about two-thirds of their average weekly wages. California sets minimum and maximum benefit amounts.
For most workplace injuries, TD benefits may continue for up to 104 weeks within five years of the injury. However, some serious work-related injuries may qualify for up to 240 weeks of benefits.
Contact Our Visalia Workers’ Comp Lawyers Today
If a work injury keeps you from working, TD benefits can help replace part of your lost income. We can explain your options, answer your questions and help you pursue available benefits under California workers’ comp.
Contact Mitchell & Powell, A Professional Law Corporation to discuss your situation with our Visalia workers’ comp attorneys. Call 559-697-5936 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.