Kentucky
Workers' Compensation Lawyer

Knowing the system exists is step one. Knowing what you should actually receive is step two, and frankly, it’s where things get interesting. Don’t just accept what the insurance company offers first.

Under KRS Chapter 342, here’s what you are generally entitled to after a work injury:

• Medical Treatment: The system should pay for all “reasonable and necessary” medical care related to your work injury. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, physical therapy, and even necessary travel costs. Kentucky law (KRS 342.020(4)) has specific rules about choosing your doctor, which can get tricky.
• Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If your doctor says you absolutely cannot work while you recover, you should receive TTD benefits. These payments typically equal two-thirds (2/3) of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount set by the state each year. TTD continues until your doctor says you’ve reached “Maximum Medical Improvement” (MMI) – meaning you’re as recovered as you’re going to get – or you’re cleared to return to work.
• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): What if the injury leaves you with a permanent impairment, but you can still work in some way? That’s where PPD comes in. Your doctor assigns an impairment rating based on American Medical Association guidelines, which helps calculate these benefits. This is a frequent point of disagreement.
• Permanent Total Disability (PTD): If the work injury is so severe that you are permanently unable to perform any type of work, you may qualify for PTD benefits. These are longer-term wage replacement benefits.

There are also potential death benefits if a work injury proves fatal, payable to eligible dependents.