Going back to work after suffering a work related injury requires some degree of transition on the part of both the injured worker and their employer. Depending on the type of injury and how long the worker has been off duty, the return to work may require adjustments of job duties or reduced hours. Understanding how to transition back to work after an injury and what to expect with your workers’ compensation claim are important to guarantee all benefits are received.
Before returning to work, the employee must first notify the workers’ compensation board as well as their workers’ compensation attorney. This will prevent any future problems in terms of benefits paid while receiving paid wages from your employer. Failure to notify the workers’ compensation board may result in legal ramifications if the employee is receiving both full benefits as well as earning wages from their employer.
Returning to work after an injury does not automatically mean your benefits will stop. If you still need treatment for your injury you should continue to receive medical compensation for any doctors visit or treatments required.
The most important thing to remember before returning to work is making sure all parties are informed of any changes in your status. Your attorney can help you through this transition to ensure no laws are being broken while at the same time making sure any benefits to which you are entitled are not jeopardized. Always seek counsel if you are unsure about any situations arising from the return to work after suffering a work related injury.