Workers compensation cases here in Iowa have laws that that apply to different types of injuries.  As an example shoulder injuries, brain, neck, back, nervous system, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and skin injuries along with some other medical conditions are considered to be unscheduled member injuries which are also known as an injury to your body as a whole.  This is compared to injuries to your foot, leg, toes, hand, arm, fingers, ears or eyes are generally considered to be scheduled member injuries.  The biggest distinction in these different types of injures is the amount of compensation that an injured worker will receive for permanent benefits under the Iowa workman’s compensation system.  Iowa's workman’s compensation laws can be complex and most people probably do not know about this important difference in Iowa law and how it treats these different types of work injuries.

Even though a worker with a hand injury may have the same permanent restrictions as a worker with a shoulder injury, the compensation for permanent benefits is very different.  Compensation for an injury to the body as a whole (also known as an unscheduled member injury) is based upon a percentage of 500 weeks.  The percentage is determined based on various factors such as: ×the ability to work ×permanent restrictions ×education and age ×whether surgery was performed and ×permanent impairment rating along with several other things. For example, if a worker had a shoulder injury and sustained 10% impairment to their arm converting to a 6% body as a whole rating, then generally they should receive a minimum of 30 weeks of permanent benefits. (This is calculated by taking the 6% body as a whole rating and multiplying it by 500 weeks)

 However, given the various other factors usually the amount owed is significantly higher than the impairment rating.  For example, if the injured worker could no longer return to work they had done for many years due to the injury, then the worker may be entitled to 20%, 30%, 40% or more depending on the various other factors.  If they were found to have sustained 30% disability then they would receive 150 weeks (500 weeks X 30%) of permanent benefits.   

To learn more including the 7 Deadly Mistakes to Avoid if you are hurt at Work order a copy of my FREE Book entitled “Iowa Workers’ Compensation- An Insider’s Guide to Work Injuries”.  Why offer a Free Book?  I have represented hundreds of Iowans hurt at work and have seen too many clients make mistakes before they had the “right” information resulting in them losing thousands of dollars.  Finally, you can learn about work injuries in the comfort of your own home with no risk or obligation.  However, quantities are limited so to learn how to avoid costly mistakes and your rights Call Now (800)-850-6617, ext. 711 (24 Hour Message) or go to www.IowaWorkInjury.com.