Disability Rating and How It Is Calculated in Oklahoma

Disability Rating and How It Is Calculated in Oklahoma Image

When dealing with a workers’ compensation or Social Security Disability case, one of the key factors influencing benefits is the disability rating. In Oklahoma, disability ratings are used to quantify the level of impairment caused by a work-related injury or illness. These ratings play a significant role in determining the compensation owed to injured workers. If you have questions about disability ratings or need help with your Oklahoma workers’ compensation claim, contact Burton Law Group, P.C. today. Here’s how disability ratings work and how they are calculated in Oklahoma.

What Is a Disability Rating?

A disability rating is a percentage assigned to measure the extent of an individual’s physical or mental impairment resulting from a work-related injury or condition. It reflects the degree to which the impairment impacts the person’s ability to work and earn a living. Disability ratings are typically expressed as a percentage, ranging from 0% (no impairment) to 100% (total impairment).

In Oklahoma, these ratings are critical for determining compensation under the workers’ compensation system. A higher disability rating generally corresponds to greater compensation for the injured worker.

How Are Disability Ratings Calculated in Oklahoma?

The Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Court utilizes the fifth edition of the American Medical Association’s Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment (AMA Guides) to determine disability ratings. These guides provide a structured system for assessing impairment in seven key body systems:

  • Musculoskeletal System: Covers injuries to bones, joints, muscles, and tendons.
  • Nervous System: Includes impairments affecting the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.
  • Cardiovascular System: Considers the functional limitations caused by heart and blood vessel conditions.
  • Respiratory System: Evaluates impairments of the lungs and respiratory tract.
  • Mental and Behavioral Disorders: Focuses on conditions such as depression or anxiety resulting from work-related injuries.
  • Special Senses and Speech: Includes impairments affecting vision, hearing, and speech.
  • Integumentary System: Assesses injuries or impairments related to the skin, such as burns or scars.

Physicians consider various factors when assigning a disability rating, including:

  • The nature and severity of your injury or illness
  • Loss of function or range of motion
  • Pain level
  • Medical limitations
  • Likelihood of future improvement

The physician assigns an impairment rating to each affected body system based on the AMA Guides. These individual ratings are then combined to generate a comprehensive disability rating, which quantifies the overall impact of the injuries on your ability to work.

How Does a Disability Rating Affect Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

Your disability rating directly influences the type and amount of workers’ compensation benefits you are eligible to receive. In Oklahoma, benefits are calculated as a percentage of your average weekly wage (AWW) for a specific duration. Key benefit types include:

  • Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): Available if you can still work but experience a partial wage loss due to your injury. These benefits are calculated as 70% of the difference between your AWW and your current earnings during recovery.
  • Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If your injury prevents you from working entirely, you may be eligible for TTD benefits. These benefits are calculated as 70% of your AWW and are typically capped at a maximum duration until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI).
  • Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): These benefits are awarded if you suffer a permanent impairment that reduces your earning capacity. The benefit amount is determined using your disability rating and a set number of weeks outlined in the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Act.
  • Permanent Total Disability (PTD): If your work injury leaves you permanently and completely unable to work in any capacity, you may qualify for PTD benefits. These benefits are paid at 70% of your AWW for life or until you reach eligibility for social security retirement.

Get Help from Experienced Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Lawyers

A proper disability rating is essential for receiving fair compensation after a work-related injury. At Burton Law Group, we understand the challenges injured workers face and are committed to helping you secure the benefits you deserve. Our team of skilled Tulsa workers comp attorneys is ready to assist you with your workers’ compensation or disability claim. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward justice.