As experienced work injury attorneys in Minnesota, we at Mottaz & Sisk understand how confusing and overwhelming it can be to navigate a work injury claim. You’re in pain, unable to work, and facing a complex legal process during an already difficult time. That’s why we’re here – to guide you through the process with compassion and fight fiercely for the benefits you deserve. 

One of the most important factors in a work injury claim is whether your disability is classified as temporary or permanent. This determination impacts the benefits you’re entitled to receive. As your Minnesota work injury lawyers, we’ll thoroughly assess your unique situation and work closely with your doctors to build the strongest case.

Jerry Sisk, President/Owner of Mottaz & Sisk Injury Law, is an accomplished Minnesota workers’ compensation attorney who dedicates his practice to helping injured workers and improving the workers’ compensation system. He grew up in Plymouth, MN. After attending Wayzata High School, he went on to Michigan State University before graduating from the University of Minnesota Law School. Following law school, he worked at Heacox, Hartman, et al., representing insurance companies. After several years, he transitioned to helping injured workers.

Jerry is recognized by Super Lawyers magazine as a Super Lawyer and Rising Star. He is AV rated through Martindale Hubbell, and on the Executive Committee for the Minnesota State Bar Association and Minnesota Association of Justice. Jerry is also the former President for the Anoka County Bar Association. 

Currently, Jerry is Chair of the Workers’ Compensation section of the Minnesota Association of Justice. He also serves as a Mediator/Arbitrator for the Minnesota Union Construction Workers’ Compensation Program. He is the Attorney Fee Arbitrator for Anoka County. 

Jerry is Junior Editor of the Minnesota CLE Workers’ Compensation Deskbook and co-author of Chapter 16, Medicare, and also the author of the Injured Workers’ Guide to Minnesota Workers’ Compensation sold on Amazon.com. He is co-host of the Podcast, “MN Work Comp Connection”, and a contributor to the Minnesota Association of Justice Trial magazine. He has given numerous presentations throughout the State of Minnesota and nationally on various workers’ compensation topics.

Jerry, his wife, three kids, and chocolate lab reside in Blaine, Minnesota. When not practicing law, he enjoys spending time with his family and coaching his kids’ activities.

At Mottaz & Sisk Injury and Work Compensation Lawyers, we have years of knowledge and industry experience. Call us at 763-421-8226 today for your free consultation.

Temporary Disability Claims in Minnesota

In Minnesota, temporary disability benefits are paid if you’re unable to work for more than three calendar days due to a work injury. These benefits are called temporary total disability (TTD) if you can’t work at all, or temporary partial disability (TPD) if you can work in a limited capacity but are earning less than your pre-injury wages.

Imagine this hypothetical scenario: You’re a construction worker who injures your back in a fall at the jobsite. Your doctor says you can’t work for 6 weeks while you recover. During this time, TTD benefits would provide a partial wage replacement, typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a set maximum amount.  

Your work injury attorney in Minnesota will ensure all the proper paperwork is filed and deadlines are met so you receive your benefits promptly. We know you’re relying on these checks to support your family during your recovery.

What Happens When You’re Ready to Return to Work?

As you heal, your doctor may clear you to return to work with restrictions, such as no heavy lifting. If your employer can accommodate these restrictions, you would transition to TPD benefits to make up the difference in your wages. 

We work closely with your employer and doctors during this time to ensure your restrictions are followed. We’ve seen too many cases of re-injury when an employer pushes a worker past their limitations. As your fierce advocates, we won’t let that happen to you.

Permanent Disability Claims in Minnesota

In some cases, a work injury leads to a permanent disability. If your doctor determines you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI) but you have lasting impairments that prevent you from returning to your pre-injury job, you may be eligible for permanent disability benefits.

Calculating Permanent Partial Disability Benefits

Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits are calculated based on your impairment rating. In Minnesota, this is a percentage assigned by your doctor that reflects your level of permanent functional loss. 

Imagine you suffer a back injury that leaves you with chronic pain and limited mobility, resulting in a 20% impairment rating under Minnesota law. Your work injury lawyer in Minnesota will consult the state’s PPD benefits schedule to determine the amount and duration of benefits you’re entitled to based on that rating.

While PPD benefits won’t fully replace your lost earning capacity, they provide critical support as you adjust to living and working with your permanent impairment. As your attorneys, we’ll fight to secure the maximum level of benefits available for your disability.

When a Work Injury Leads to Permanent Total Disability

In the most serious cases, a work injury may leave you permanently and totally disabled. This means your injury prevents you from sustaining any type of substantial and gainful employment.

“I never imagined a work injury would end my career. I didn’t know how I would support my family. But my attorneys at Mottaz & Sisk fought for the permanent total disability benefits I needed. They gave me peace of mind during the hardest time of my life.” – A grateful client 

If you find yourself in this difficult situation, we’ll be your unwavering advocates. We have extensive experience securing permanent total disability benefits for clients who are unable to return to any form of gainful employment due to a work injury.  

Experienced, Compassionate Work Injury Attorneys In Minnesota

At Mottaz & Sisk, we understand the profound impact a work injury can have on your life. The physical pain, financial stress, and uncertainty about the future can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to face it alone.  

Imagine having a team of experienced attorneys who truly care about your well-being. Who take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and craft a personalized legal strategy. Who stand by your side every step of the way, from filing your claim to securing the benefits you deserve.

As your Minnesota work injury attorneys, we’ll handle all the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery and moving forward with your life. Whether your disability is temporary or permanent, we’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights.

Mottaz & Sisk Injury Law has 20+ years of experience dealing with work injury matters. Please call us at 763-421-8226 for a free consultation if you have experienced a work injury. 

FAQs about Temporary vs. Permanent Disability Claims in Minnesota

  1. How Long Can I Receive Temporary Total Disability Benefits?

In Minnesota, you’re eligible for TTD benefits until you either return to work or reach maximum medical improvement, up to a maximum of 130 weeks. 

  1. Can I Receive Both Temporary Partial Disability And Permanent Partial Disability Benefits?

Yes, if you have permanent work restrictions but are able to return to work in some capacity, you may receive TPD benefits initially and then transition to PPD benefits once you reach MMI.

  1. What If My Employer Won’t Accommodate My Permanent Work Restrictions? 

If your employer is unable to accommodate your permanent restrictions, you may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services to help you find a new job within your limitations. As your Work injury lawyers in Minnesota, we’ll advocate for the services and support you need.

  1. How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Work Injury Attorney?

At Mottaz & Sisk, we handle work injury claims on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any upfront costs, and we only collect a fee if we secure benefits for you. 

  1. What Should I Do If My Work Injury Claim Is Denied?

If your claim is denied, don’t despair. Our experienced Minnesota work injury attorneys will thoroughly review your case and advise you on your options for appeal. We have a strong track record of success in appealing denied claims.

Work With an Experienced Work Injury Lawyer

If you’re facing a work injury claim in Minnesota, turn to the compassionate, knowledgeable attorneys at Mottaz & Sisk. We’ll be your fiercest advocates and guide you through the complex process of securing the disability benefits you deserve.

Mottaz & Sisk Injury Law has 20+ years of experience dealing with work injury matters. Please call us at 763-421-8226 for a free consultation if you have experienced a work injury.