If you’re a worker in Arizona who has suffered an injury that temporarily affects your ability to perform your usual job, you may be eligible for temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits. These benefits provide financial support while you recover, but navigating the system and ensuring you receive the maximum compensation can be challenging. In this guide here we’ll explain what temporary partial disability benefits are, how to maximize your compensation, and offer helpful advice for your claims process.
What Are Temporary Partial Disability Benefits?
Workers who have a partial disability that keeps them from doing all or part of their job tasks for a short time can get Temporary Partial Disability benefits. Unlike permanent disability, which may require ongoing compensation, TPD benefits are designed to provide temporary support while you recover and can return to your job. This is most common when a worker is still able to perform some tasks but not all of their regular duties.
In Arizona, workers’ compensation laws are designed to assist those who have suffered injuries at work. If you are partially disabled and unable to earn your full wages due to the injury, TPD benefits can help bridge the financial gap during your recovery period.
How TPD Benefits Are Calculated
Temporary partial disability benefits are based on your average weekly wage (AWW) prior to the injury. Up to the highest amount allowed by Arizona law, workers can get two-thirds of their average weekly wage. This payment continues until you are able to return to work at full capacity or until you have reached the maximum benefit duration.
It’s essential to ensure your wages are accurately calculated, and any bonuses, commissions, or overtime are considered in the AWW calculation. Missing or incorrect wage information can result in lower compensation.
Maximizing Your Compensation
Maximizing your compensation during your TPD claim requires a careful, organized approach. Here are few steps you can take:
1. Accurate Reporting of Your Injury
When you first tell your boss about your injury and file your claim with the Arizona Workers’ Compensation system, it’s important to be honest and specific about how the injury. Be sure to include all relevant documentation from healthcare providers, including doctor’s notes detailing the specific limitations caused by your injury.
2. Follow Doctor’s Orders and Treatment Plans
TPD benefits are typically tied to the progress of your recovery. By consistently following your doctor’s prescribed treatment plan and attending all necessary appointments, you demonstrate that you are actively working to recover. Non-compliance with medical advice can be seen as a reason to reduce or stop benefits.
3. Keep Detailed Records
Make sure you keep careful records of all your medical appointments, treatments, and conversations with your workplace or workers’ compensation provider. If your situation gets better or changes, write it down right away and let your insurance company know. Any breaks in your paperwork can cause the benefits you’re owed to be delayed.
4. Consider Vocational Rehabilitation
In some cases, your doctor may recommend vocational rehabilitation to help you transition to light-duty work or adjust to new job duties. This can improve your chances of returning to work sooner, while also showing that you’re taking the necessary steps to recover. If rehabilitation services are available, consider utilizing them to help increase your earning capacity while you heal.
5. Consult with an Experienced Attorney
It can be hard to handle workers’ compensation cases in Arizona by yourself because they are so complicated. A workers’ compensation lawyer with a lot of experience can help you understand your rights and make sure you get all the benefits you’re eligible for. If there are problems with your claim or if the insurance company won’t work with you, a lawyer can speak up for you.
6. Avoid Settling Too Early
One common mistake many injured workers make is accepting a settlement offer too soon. Insurance companies may offer an initial settlement amount, but it may not adequately reflect the full extent of your injuries or potential long-term impacts. Before agreeing to any settlement, consider seeking professional legal advice to ensure that you’re not leaving money on the table.
Conclusion
To get the most money from temporary partial disability benefits in Arizona, you need to pay close attention to details, be patient, and sometimes get help from a professional. You can be sure to get the benefits you’re due if you know how the process works, keep records of your recovery, and follow the right steps. If you need more information on how to get the most out of your workers’ compensation, we have a guide that can help you.
If you’re not sure about any part of the claims process, don’t be afraid to get help from a lawyer. You can get the compensation you need to fully heal and go back to work at full capacity if you get the right help.
