How is permanent disability compensation calculated in California?

Permanent disability (PD) compensation in California is determined by a number of salient factors. It begins with a rating provided by a physician that indicates the percentage of impairment resulting from the on-the-job injury. The rating is determined by the extent of the injury, the way it will impact the worker\'s ability to earn a living, and any permanent physical or mental restrictions. Once the percentage is calculated, the Permanent Disability Rating Schedule (PDRS) comes into play to translate that percentage into a monetary amount. The calculation also takes into account the age and occupation of the injured worker, and whether or not they can return to their job. Every percentage point of disability is equivalent to a certain number of weeks of benefits, paid based on two-thirds of the worker\'s average weekly earnings subject to state-established minimum and maximum limits. Further modifiers can exist if the worker is unable to return to work.