If you’re in the process of filing a workers’ compensation claim, or currently amidst one, understanding the jargon involved in these cases is essential. While your attorney at PLBH can clarify any queries you may have, being well-informed about the most frequently used terms will keep you ahead of the curve, potentially benefiting the outcome of your case.

Let’s break down some of the most commonly used terms in workers’ compensation cases. Remember that you can contact us at (800) 435-7542 for a free legal consultation.

Accident

This term refers to an event that occurs in the course of employment, resulting in an injury or injuries to the employee.

Average Weekly Wage (AWW) for Workers’ Compensation Claims

This is generally defined as 1/52nd of the injured worker’s average annual earnings, based on the prior year’s payroll data, and is used to calculate total disability benefit rates for most claimants. In cases where the injured worker hasn’t worked a significant part of the preceding year, the average wage of a similarly employed worker would be used for calculations.

Board Panel

This panel usually comprises three Workers’ Compensation Board members, one of whom must be an attorney. They review requests made by Workers’ Compensation Law Judges, reopen closed cases, and review applications for lump sum adjustment awards.

Claim

Injured workers must file a claim within a two-year timeframe from the date of the accident or knowledge of the occupational disablement. Failure to do so could bar an award for compensation.

Dependent

In fatal injury cases, this term refers to an individual who is eligible to receive death benefits. This could include surviving widows or children under 18 years of age who are eligible without needing to prove dependency, or other relatives such as dependent grandparents if dependency is established.

Indemnity Benefits

This term refers to compensation paid to workers’ compensation claimants for non-medical loss resulting from an injury or illness. Various benefits are permitted under the Workers’ Compensation Law, including temporary and permanent disability benefits and death benefits.

Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)

MMI is generally a prerequisite for determining a claimant’s permanent disability level. It indicates that the claimant has recovered to the greatest extent expected from the work injury.

Tentative Rate

This refers to the assigned weekly rate stipulated by the Workers’ Compensation Board for indemnity payments, pending the final adjudication of outstanding issues related to benefit rates.

Partner with [Business] for Your Workers’ Compensation Case

At PLBH, our dedicated team of workers’ compensation attorneys is committed to helping victims of work-related injuries secure the benefits they need. Workers’ compensation laws can be intricate and complex, but our attorneys will guide you through every step of the process. Contacts us now at (800) 435-7542 with any questions you may have and to request a legal consultation.