While the symptoms of PTSD can begin immediately after a traumatic event, for the purposes of VA disability claims, a full diagnosis cannot be made until at least six months after the traumatic event occurred.

First responders and eligible employees diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can now access a streamlined pathway to make a workers’ compensation claim. The new pathway means they will not need to prove their PTSD was caused by work.

The workers’ compensation acts and supporting regulations (workers’ compensation laws) in each jurisdiction support workers in the event of a work- related injury. Psychological injury may include such disorders as depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder.

5 steps to filing a workers’ comp claim

1. The employee reports an injury to their employer.
2. The employer guides the injured worker on necessary paperwork and next steps.
3. The employer reports the injury and files the claim form.
4. The insurer approves or denies the claim.
5. The employee returns to work.

Petitions for reconsideration must be filed within 30 days from the date of issuance of the Board’s decision or order. After 30 days, the decision of the Board becomes final. Thereafter, any request to reopen the claim must be submitted to OWCP. ORAL ARGUMENT: Oral argument is held in the discretion of the Board.

In my experience the average workers comp PTSD settlement is between $50,000.00 and $95,000.00 if you did not suffer a physical injury. If you suffered a physical injury that resulted in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, then it is possible to receive much more, depending on the severity of your physical injuries.

Because many people worry about a preexisting injury affecting their claim, they may be tempted to lie and say they didn’t have a previous injury. Unfortunately, this can hurt your claim, too. Your doctor can easily find out about your previous accident, especially if they have access to your medical records..

For most injuries, a federal worker is provided with regular wages for 45 days after a claim is filed and approved.

To win a VA disability claim for PTSD you must prove the following:

1. A current diagnosis of PTSD.
2. An in-service stressful event.
3. An opinion by a qualified mental health expert that the PTSD is related to the stressful event (called a “nexus” opinion).