In the context of Tennessee workers’ compensation claims, a method exists to estimate the monetary value of permanent physical restrictions or disabilities resulting from a work-related injury. This estimation tool utilizes several key factors, including the assigned percentage of whole-person impairment as determined by a physician, the employee’s average weekly wage prior to the injury, and statutory provisions governing benefit calculations. The output is an approximation of the financial compensation an injured worker may be entitled to receive for the permanent effects of their injury.
The availability of such a calculation is significant because it provides injured workers with a degree of transparency and allows for preliminary assessment of potential benefits. Understanding the approximate value of an impairment rating can empower individuals to make informed decisions regarding settlement negotiations and potential return-to-work strategies. Historically, accessing this type of information required consulting legal professionals, potentially incurring costs before understanding the basic financial implications of the impairment. The ability to independently generate an estimated payout can streamline the initial stages of a claim.