What is Total Disability?

Total disability is a severe injury that impairs a person’s physical and/or mental abilities to such an extent that they can no longer resume their normal occupational or non-occupational activities. This condition persists even after the individual has healed as much as possible, meaning they are permanently unable to perform the essential duties of their previous job.

In many cases, a worker classified as totally disabled can collect full total disability benefits even if they begin earning income from a different job. However, some insurance policies may define total disability in a way that restricts benefits for those who choose to work elsewhere. Regardless, individuals suffering from total disability are generally entitled to financial compensation to replace the wages they would have earned if not for their disabling injury.

In Connecticut, workers’ compensation insurance, which employers are required to carry, provides these critical benefits to injured employees. Navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation laws can be challenging, and that’s where Bert McDowell Injury Law steps in to help.

Total Disability vs. Partial Disability Benefits

Both total and partial disability benefits aim to support workers who are injured on the job, but the two are significantly different:

• Permanent Partial Disability: This type of disability occurs when the worker can still perform some job functions but not at their previous capacity. Examples include hearing loss, back injuries, amputations, and vision damage. Permanent partial disability is more common and accounts for about half of all workers’ compensation claims.
• Permanent Total Disability: This is a more severe type of disability in which the worker is completely unable to perform the job they were trained for. Examples include the loss of both hands, arms, legs, feet, or eyes. In these cases, the worker is no longer capable of earning a living in their previous role.

How Total Disability Benefits Work in Connecticut

In Connecticut, workers who suffer total disabilities due to workplace injuries are entitled to compensation through their employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. Temporary total disability benefits may be provided while the worker is recovering and unable to return to work. The amount is typically calculated as a percentage of the worker’s average weekly wage prior to the injury.

Once the injured worker reaches Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)—the point at which their condition is unlikely to improve further—they may be evaluated for permanent total disability. If deemed permanently and totally disabled, the individual may receive ongoing benefits for the rest of their life. These benefits are designed to help the worker support themselves and adjust to the life changes imposed by the injury.

Unfortunately, insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. This is why it’s crucial to have an experienced Connecticut workers’ compensation attorney, like those at Bert McDowell Injury Law, advocating for your rights.

Why Choose Bert McDowell Injury Law?

At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we are committed to helping injured workers in Connecticut receive the compensation they deserve. We understand how devastating a work-related injury can be, particularly when it results in a total disability that changes your life forever. From handling paperwork to negotiating with insurance companies, we take care of the legal complexities so you can focus on recovery.

Our team has extensive experience navigating Connecticut’s workers’ compensation system and fighting for the rights of injured workers. Whether you are dealing with a denied claim, insufficient benefits, or simply need guidance, we’re here to help.

Contact Bert McDowell Injury Law Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, workplace incident, or any other type of accident caused by negligence, don’t wait to seek legal help. Bert McDowell Injury Law is here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 475-231-3274 to schedule your free consultation. You can also fill out our contact form to get started.

We take pride in serving clients across Connecticut and ensuring that their voices are heard in both settlement negotiations and in the courtroom. Let us put our experience and dedication to work for you.