[Legal Dictionary] Definition of Permanent Partial Disability

A permanent partial disability, or PPD, benefit, is an amount set by law. An employer’s worker’s compensation policy pays this benefit to an employee who suffers the permanent partial disability. The amount varies dependent on the disability itself.

A victim who has sustained an incomplete, but permanent, disability may qualify for benefits as set by New York state law. An injury victim collecting a PPD benefit may still be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent party, whether or not that party is the employer.

Examples of Permanent Partial Disabilities

Permanent partial disabilities include a range of conditions, such as:

• Loss of taste or smell
• Partial loss of limb or extremity
• Loss of bladder or bowel function

An employee may qualify for a PPD benefit even if he or she is still able to work.