The Disability Evaluation Unit is the department that determines percentages of permanent disability an injured worker has suffered. Disability determinations can be completed at the request of a workers’ compensation judge, an attorney or a court official, a claims administrator or by a worker who has been injured. These disability ratings are then used to determine the amount of permanent disability benefits the worker is entitled to. The Unit determines disability ratings by reviewing medical reports detailing descriptions of physical or mental damage. Why is Your Disability Rating Important? Your disability rating is important because it will be used to determine the amount of benefits you may be entitled to. There are three types of reviews. Formal reviews are requested by workers’ comp judges. Consultative reviews are done at the request of attorney’s or other court officials. Summary reviews are completed at the request of an impaired worker or claims administrator. Why Representation Can Help Having a workers’ comp attorney representing you can help ensure that your disability level is accurately calculated to maximize the benefits you may receive. If it is beneficial, your attorney can request a rating review from the Disability Evaluation Unit. It may be beneficial to have an attorney represent you when you need to get a disability rating from the DEU. An attorney can make sure all the medical reports are requested and received by the DEU in a timely manner. Once a percentage rating has been determined, an attorney can help you get the benefits or pension you are entitled to. To speak with a workers' compensation attorney in your area, please fill out our Free Case Evaluation.
