Lump sum compensation for permanent impairment is an insurance benefit that you may be able to claim under workers compensation insurance if you have suffered a permanent impairment from a workplace injury.
Eligibility for lump sum compensation due to permanent impairment
Eligibility for lump sum compensation depends on the severity of the impairment and whether the condition is deemed unlikely to change substantially in the future with or without treatment. The law in regards to compensation for permanent impairment has changed over the years, which is why it is important to understand the most up to date advice regarding potential policy benefits.
If you are making your claim on or after the 19th of June 2012 then you need to prove that you have an 11% or more whole person physical impairment or a 15% or more primary psychological injury to be entitled to receive permanent impairment benefits from workers compensation insurance.
How are you assessed for permanent impairment?
Assessment for permanent impairment needs to be performed by an accredited medical specialist that has been trained in performing permanent impairment examinations for compensation claims. This can only be done when your injury has stabilised, i.e. it is unlikely to change substantially over the next year.
Once your injury has stabilised, or deemed to have reached maximum medical improvement, you may then undergo an assessment with a trained medical specialist. LawAdvice can organise the relevant appointments.
Making a claim
Once you’ve been assessed and deemed eligible for lump sum compensation for permanent impairment, your lawyer will send the assessor’s report to the insurer with a request that the lump sum is paid to you. The insurer can agree, or organise their own medical assessment in order to determine whether your injuries meet the criteria for a lump sum. In the event, we cannot agree with the insurer, your matter will be referred to an independent doctor to determine the issue.
Making a claim on your own can be a daunting affair, which is why finding a compensation lawyer that understands the process is one of the best ways to maximise your chances of success and minimise the stress that comes with trying to understand your rights and responsibilities by yourself.