Once MMI is reached, your doctor will assess your condition and determine your disability rating. The disability rating is important because it will be used in settlement discussions with the workers’ compensation attorney. The rating is also important because it provides restrictions for job tasks. For example, your disability rating may restrict you from bending, sitting or lifting on the job.
If you have reached MMI but have not settled your case and your condition has worsened you should go back to the doctor. It is important to let your doctor, even though it is the workers’ compensation doctor, know about any worsening of your condition. It’s possible you could obtain a higher rating which would result in a higher possible payout at the end.
If you are not happy with your doctor’s disability rating you may ask workers’ compensation to approve sending you to a different provider. It is very important to know that you are only able to switch providers one time. So make sure to use your one switch wisely.
Workers’ compensation is a great benefit for employees. However, on the flip side, it is a very complicated system to navigate with a lot of pitfalls. If you are not well versed in the program you run the risk of shortchanging yourself and your family on the potential benefits you could be receiving. If you have been hurt on the job, the first thing you should do is seek advice from a knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorney. Call us at the LaBovick Law Group and we will provide you with a free consultation!
