After your worker’s compensation ends, you have to return to work when your medical professional declares you fit for work. As you seek treatment for an injury obtained while at work, medical professionals will keep track of your status on charts and alter your return to work date accordingly. Should you be released to work by that date or sooner, you must inform your employer and return to the job if you wish to retain your employment.
When You Should Return to Work After an Accident
While the medical professional treating and assessing your condition will have the bulk of say over when you return to work, you can still discuss your limitations and drawbacks with them. Several factors can contribute to whether or not you are capable of working again after a substantial injury. These can include:
- Your level of recovery. The term “level of recovery” applies both to the level of work performance suggested by the medical professional and the way you feel when performing day-to-day responsibilities. While medical professionals can monitor your recovery from a clinical perspective, you, too, can determine whether or not you feel capable of performing those responsibilities that will be required of you in the workplace. As such, you can continue to communicate your limitations with any attending medical professionals and, in turn, determine whether or not it is safe for you to return to work. Do note, though, that you do risk losing your position if you misjudge your limitations.
- Your Maximum Medical Improvement. While there may be a level at which you are fit to work, this level may not be your maximum medical improvement (MMI) level. Your physician can determine what that level may look like and what conditions may aid your progress towards that state. It is possible to remain out of work and on workers’ compensation benefits until you reach your MMI level.
- Medical Professionals’ Recommendations. A medical professional will let you know when it appears that you can return to work based on your changing conditions. You should discuss your return-to-work date with your attending physician and discuss whether or not you feel you can go back to work.
Communicating with a Supervisor After a Workplace Accident
The limitations placed on your workers’ compensation will depend on the plan your employer has in place. As you recover from your injury, make sure to say in touch with your employer to stay abreast of the status of your compensation. As you do so, you can relate the status of your condition to determine when it may be best for you to return to work. Your employer, however, cannot request that you return to work before a medical professional determines that you are able to work again.
In some cases, you may be able to work with modifications to your tasks as you recover, but this will depend on your job and your recovery. Employers may have a return to work program to help make your recovery and transition back to work easier, according to The Balance Small Business. If you feel that these adjustments to your workload are hindering your recovery, make sure you speak with your employer and your doctor. If your employer pushes back on this, make sure you express your concerns to the person treating your injuries.
A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer at Ben Crump Law, PLLC Can Help You Fight for Your Rights
Although you have to go back to work after your workers’ compensation ends, there may be instances in which something prevents you from returning, such as a physician determining you are not ready. You may need an attorney to help you in such a situation. Our team can work with you on your workers’ compensation claim and represent you if you have any disputes about your injuries or payments. The Insurance Information Institute (III) explains that each state has its own requirements for seeking benefits. With that, you may find it helpful to have our legal representatives on your side.
The team at Ben Crump Law, PLLC recognizes that all individuals deserve the right to fight for justice, and the firm operates on a contingency basis. You can seek out legal aid and representation in court free of charge when working with such a firm. You will only be charged for their services if a court approves your benefits or otherwise awards you a settlement. This way, you can continue to focus on your recovery and day-to-day needs instead of your potential legal fees.
If you wish to seek legal action or advice when faced with a workplace accident, you can. The team at Ben Crump Law, PLLC can answer your questions and advise you on your legal rights. To reach out and start that conversation, call (800) 603-4224.
