The 4 Types of Disability in a Workers’ Comp Case

If you’ve been injured on the job in Colorado, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. But not all injuries—and not all disabilities—are treated the same under the law. The type of disability you’re diagnosed with will significantly impact how much compensation you receive, how long you receive it, and what medical care you’re entitled to.

Navigating the workers’ compensation process can be complex, and insurance companies may not always have your best interests at heart. That’s where experienced workers’ compensation lawyers come in. A skilled attorney can help you understand your rights, ensure you receive the full benefits you deserve, and guide you through the claims process, including appealing denials or disputes with your employer or insurer.

In this article, we’ll explain the four types of disability recognized in Colorado workers’ compensation cases, how they’re determined, and what each one means for your claim.

1. Temporary Total Disability (TTD)

Definition: You are completely unable to work for a short period due to your injury.

This is the most common type of disability following a workplace accident. If your authorized treating physician says you can’t return to work at all, even with restrictions, you may qualify for temporary total disability (TTD) benefits.

Key Points:

• Paid at two-thirds (66 2/3%) of your average weekly wage, up to a state maximum.
  
• Begins after you miss more than three workdays due to the injury.
  
• Continues until:
  
  • You’re cleared to return to work, or
    
  • You reach maximum medical improvement (MMI)—the point where your condition has stabilized and is not expected to improve further.
    

Example:

If you develop injuries while working in a warehouse, such as back injuries, head injuries, neck injuries, or other work-related conditions, you may find yourself unable to perform your regular duties. While recovering and attending medical treatments like physical therapy, you could be eligible for Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits. These benefits can help replace lost wages during your recovery period, as long as your doctor has not cleared you to return to full-duty work. For example, if you’re temporarily unable to lift or perform physical tasks due to an injury, TTD benefits could provide financial support until you’re cleared for light-duty work or fully recovered.

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(303) 999-9999

2. Temporary Partial Disability (TPD)

Definition: You can return to work in a limited capacity but earn less money due to your injury.

If your doctor allows you to return to work with restrictions (such as no lifting or fewer hours), and this results in lower earnings, you may qualify for temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits.

Key Points:

• Designed to compensate for the wage loss while you’re healing.
  
• Benefits equal two-thirds of the difference between your pre-injury and post-injury wages.
  
• Ends when:
  
  • You return to your regular job and full wages, or
    
  • You reach MMI.
    

Example:

A construction worker fractures their wrist and is placed on restricted duty, working only 20 hours a week instead of 40. TPD benefits help cover part of the wage gap until full recovery.

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3. Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)

Definition: You’ve reached maximum medical improvement, but you still have lasting limitations from your injury.

After reaching MMI, your doctor may determine you’ve suffered permanent damage to a specific body part—even if you can return to work. This qualifies as permanent partial disability (PPD).

There are two types of PPD in Colorado:

• Scheduled injuries: Specific body parts (e.g., arms, legs, fingers, toes).
  
• Whole person injuries: More complex injuries (e.g., pine, head injuries, internal organs) that affect overall functioning.
  

Key Points:

• Based on impairment rating assigned by a physician.
  
• Paid as a lump sum or in weekly installments.
  
• Doesn’t depend on whether you return to work or not.
  

Example:

An office worker develops carpal tunnel syndrome. After surgery and rehab, they reach MMI but have reduced grip strength. They receive PPD benefits for partial permanent damage to the hand.

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4. Permanent Total Disability (PTD)

Definition: You are permanently unable to return to any gainful employment due to your work injury.

This is the most severe category. To qualify for permanent total disability (PTD) benefits, you must demonstrate that you can’t return to any job—not just your previous one—because of your injuries.

Key Points:

• Paid at the same rate as TTD—two-thirds of your average weekly wage.
  
• Paid for life, or as long as the disability continues.
  
• May require legal action or extensive medical evidence to prove eligibility.
  

Example:

A truck driver suffers a traumatic brain injury in a collision. They are unable to concentrate, drive, or perform tasks necessary for any type of employment. They may qualify for PTD benefits permanently.

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How Are Disability Types Determined?

Your authorized treating physician plays a central role in evaluating your condition and determining your work capacity. They decide:

• When you can return to work
  
• Whether you need light-duty restrictions
  
• When you’ve reached MMI
  
• What level of permanent impairment you may have
  

Additionally, insurance companies often request an Independent Medical Examination (IME) to verify your condition. If there are disagreements between medical opinions, the case may go before a judge or require a Denver personal injury lawyer to help resolve the dispute.

What If You Disagree With Your Disability Rating?

You have the right to challenge a disability classification or impairment rating if you believe it’s unfair or inaccurate. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can:

• Request a second opinion or IME
  
• File an objection with the Division of Workers’ Compensation
  
• Present evidence and represent you at a hearing
  

Why Legal Help Matters

Each disability type carries different benefits, requirements, and legal challenges. Insurance companies often dispute claims or try to minimize your compensation—especially with PPD or PTD cases. Having the right legal guidance ensures:

• You get the full benefits you’re entitled to
  You’re not forced back to work before you’re ready
• Your medical condition is properly documented and rated

Speak With a Colorado Workers’ Comp Attorney Today

At Boesen Law, we’ve helped countless injured workers across Colorado understand their disability classification, challenge unfair ratings, and secure the compensation they deserve. Whether you’ve sustained a back injury, head injury, neck injury, or any other workplace injury, our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys are here to guide you through the process. We work tirelessly to ensure you receive the appropriate benefits, even if you believe you may have been at fault for the injury.

Whether you’re just starting your claim or dealing with a complex impairment rating, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Call +303 999-9999 or contact us to speak with a knowledgeable Colorado workers’ compensation attorney today.

Let us fight for the support and justice you need to move forward with confidence.

Call or text (303) 999-9999 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form