The tools used to estimate monetary compensation for veterans’ service-connected disabilities often incorporate a feature to account for conditions affecting paired extremities. This consideration, known as the bilateral factor, specifically addresses situations where disabilities impact both arms, both legs, or paired skeletal supports like the spine. When a veteran has a disability rating for both extremities, this rating is combined with other disability ratings to determine a total combined disability percentage. If both arms or both legs are affected, an additional increase of 10 percent of the combined disability rating of both extremities is added to the total disability rating. The calculation aims to recognize the amplified impact of such conditions on a veterans functionality and overall quality of life. For example, if a veteran has a 20% disability in one knee and a 30% disability in the other knee, these are combined to create a 50% disability rating for bilateral knees. Then, 10% of 50% (which is 5%) is added to the overall disability rating.
The inclusion of bilateral considerations is important as it acknowledges the significantly increased burden experienced by individuals with disabilities affecting both sides of the body. Impairments in movement, balance, and overall coordination are often compounded, leading to greater limitations in daily activities and overall independence. Historically, the VA recognized the impact of bilateral disabilities early on in the disability compensation process. The presence of the bilateral factor in compensation calculations reflects a commitment to providing adequate support for veterans facing these challenges. This ensures the compensation accurately reflects the combined functional impact of the bilateral conditions.
