What does 'permanent disability' mean in the context of California Workers' Compensation?

In the context of California Workers' Compensation, 'permanent disability' refers to a long-term impairment that affects an individual's ability to earn a living. This distinction is crucial because permanent disability acknowledges that the injury has resulted in lasting effects that may not fully heal, leading to limitations in the individual’s capacity to perform their previous job or other gainful work.

Understanding this definition is essential since it directly influences how compensation is calculated and awarded. The determination of permanent disability is based on medical evaluations and assessments that conclude the degree to which the injury has impacted the person's functional abilities. It is a recognition that the individual may require accommodations or may be permanently limited in their career path as a result of the workplace injury.

In contrast, other options do not align with the established definition of permanent disability. A temporary condition that fully heals refers to situations where the employee returns to their full function, while a short-term adjustment period describes a phase immediately following an injury rather than a long-term impairment. Lastly, any injury that occurs while at work does not inherently imply any level of impairment, as many injuries may be minor and not affect earning capacity at all.