Semi-Truck Accident 101: What Every Passenger Car Driver Should Understand

The Impact That A MMI Has On A Workers' Compensation Case

1 March 2023 by Kenneth Graham

After you get injured at work, you should inform your employer. They will then contact their insurance provider and initiate the workers' compensation claims process. You will also need to receive medical treatment and hopefully see your medical condition improve. At some point, you might reach what is known as a "maximum medical improvement" (MMI).

Understanding MMI

MMI is a point at which you will not recover any further from your medical condition, according to your doctor's opinion. You will not necessarily have fully healed, but your doctor will no longer believe that you can improve your medical condition due to the severity of the injury.

For example, you may be unable to walk immediately after your accident. However, with physical therapy, you might reach a point where you can walk with a cane. But your doctor might believe you will always need an assistive device when walking or you might always walk with a limp.

Receiving a Disability Rating

When you have reached a state of MMI, your doctor will give you a disability rating. The doctor will inform the insurance provider about the disability rating and tell your employer about the tasks you can perform. For instance, you may only be able to lift so much weight.

Returning to Work After Reaching a State of MMI

If you cannot recover any further, this might affect your ability to work. You may be able to return to work, but your employer must make reasonable accommodations. Your employer might be unable to make accommodations because you cannot do your job due to your medical condition. You may be entitled to compensation for your lost wages in that case.

Deciding Whether to Receive a Settlement

Once you have reached a state of MMI, you can either continue receiving payments from the insurance provider or a lump settlement for your injuries. With a settlement, you will receive funds immediately to use when paying for medical bills and daily living expenses. 

Meeting With an Independent Medical Examiner

The workers' compensation insurance provider might disagree with your physician and may request an independent examination. You will then need to meet with the independent medical examiner. They might decide to issue a report different from that of your physician.

In this situation, you should speak with a workers' compensation attorney. They will help guide both you and your physician through the process so that you will receive the best possible outcome. 

Contact a local workers' compensation attorney to learn more. 

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