Louisiana Workers' Compensation Calculator

Louisiana's workers' compensation benefits are available regardless of who caused the workplace injury. Louisiana's negligence rules become relevant only if you pursue a separate third-party claim — for example, suing a equipment manufacturer or a negligent contractor alongside your workers' comp claim.

The statute of limitations for this type of claim in Louisiana is 1 year — shorter than the national average of 1.8 years. This compressed timeline means you need to consult an attorney and begin gathering evidence quickly.

Temporary disability benefits in Louisiana replace 67% of your pre-injury wages, subject to a weekly cap of $892. There is also a minimum benefit of $178 per week. Benefits begin after a 7-day waiting period. If your disability extends beyond 42 days, the waiting period is paid retroactively.

Permanent impairment in Louisiana is evaluated using the AMA Guides, 4th Edition. The edition or rating system used matters significantly because different versions can produce substantially different impairment ratings for the same injury, directly affecting your permanent disability benefits.

Louisiana allows injured workers to choose their own treating physician for workers' compensation claims. In states without this right, the employer or insurer selects the doctor, which can affect both the quality of care and the impairment rating you receive.

Louisiana requires injured workers to notify their employer within 30 days of the workplace injury. This notification should be in writing and include the date, time, location, and nature of the injury. The formal workers’ compensation claim filing is a separate process with its own deadline, but missing the employer notification requirement can jeopardize your entire claim.

If your workplace injury prevents you from returning to your prior job in Louisiana, you may be entitled to vocational rehabilitation benefits. These benefits are designed to help injured workers re-enter the workforce through skills training, education, job search assistance, and related support. The goal is to help you achieve employment at wages as close as possible to your pre-injury earnings. Your eligibility is typically determined through a vocational assessment.