Frequently Asked questions about workers' compensation law

How much will it cost to obtain a workers' compensation attorney?

A workers' compensation attorneys gets paid attorney fees by the employer if that attorney provides a benefit for the client.  An attorney can not charge more then $300.00 in fees but can require the client to pay expenses.  Patricia can talk more to you about fees to accommodate your financial situation.

What is the difference between a  Report of Injury and a Claim?

When an employee is injured,  he or she must inform the employer.  A Report of Injury should then be filled out by the employee and the employer and sent to the Alaska Workers' Compensation Board.  If the employer does not pay benefits the employee believes he or she deserves, then that employee should file a Claim requesting those benefits with the Alaska Workers' Compensation Board.

What are TTD, TPD, PTD, and PPD?

TTD or Temporary Total Disability benefits are disability benefits paid to an injured worker every two weeks because he or she cannot work because of a workers' compensation disability.  This disability is temporary in nature.

TPD or Temporary Partial Disability benefits are much like TTD, only the injured worker can work part time and therefore receives only a partial payment.

PTD or Permanent Total Disability benefits are disability benefits paid to an injured worker every two weeks because he or she cannot work because of a workers' compensation disability.  The disability must be permanent in nature. 

PPD or Permanent Partial Disability benefits are much like PTD, only the injured worker can work part time and therefore receives only a partial payment. 

What is an SIME?

SIME or Second Independent Medical Evaluation occurs when there is a difference in medical opinions.  A party can request an examination and opinion from a doctor chosen by the Alaska Workers' Compensation Board.  

Does the Alaska Workers Board have a web site with more information?

Yes, that site is: https://labor.alaska.gov/wc/wc-and-you.htm