What form of compensation is often awarded when a worker is permanently unable to work?

When a worker is permanently unable to work due to an injury or illness sustained while on the job, they are typically awarded permanent total disability benefits. This form of compensation is designed to provide financial support to individuals who cannot return to any form of employment because their condition is deemed permanent and total. These benefits help cover the lost wages that the worker would have earned if they were able to work, ensuring they have some level of financial stability after the injury.

In contrast, temporary partial disability benefits are generally intended for those who can still work but are earning less than they did prior to their injury. Pension benefits are typically related to retirement plans and are not specifically awarded for work-related injuries. Similarly, retirement benefits are provided to individuals upon retirement and are not a direct consequence of a work-related injury. Therefore, permanent total disability benefits are specifically tailored for cases where an individual can no longer engage in any form of employment, making them the appropriate form of compensation in these situations.