According to the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, approximately 35% of workers’ compensation claimants were granted sick leave benefits and 43% received disability benefits. The study showed that a fifth of the claimants who received work benefits remained on those benefits for a year. Workers whose compensation claims were rejected returned to work at a higher rate than those whose claims were recognized.
If your claim has been rejected, you should seek the services of a good Providence work injury lawyer. They will inform you of your rights and help you get the compensation that you deserve.
Studies also show that the longer you stay away from work, the harder it will be for you to get back to your previous duties. It’s not uncommon for work injury victims to feel like they are not ready to return to work even though their doctor gave them the go-ahead. However, keep in mind that if your doctor says you are ready to go back, you’ll have to do so or risk losing your workers’ compensation benefits.
In most cases, employers usually have attractive return-to-work policies so you’ll be able to transition back to work with ease.
When is the Right Time to Return to Work?
Your doctor will make a notation about your work status on your chart every time you see him regarding your work injury. They will decide whether you should go back to work and whether you can work with some restrictions or none at all. In some cases, your doctor might recommend that you go back to work only after you have reached maximum medical improvement. This means that you have healed from your work injuries as much as you are going to.
You can still get back to work before reaching maximum medical improvement but you will only be able to perform light duties or your tasks could be modified to avoid aggravating your injuries.
Check Your Return to Work Date
Your doctor might indicate your return to work date on your paperwork and fail to inform you. If they’ve released you to go back to work on paper, you need to notify your employer immediately. You also need to report back to work as indicated by the doctor on your paperwork.
Work Within Your Restrictions
Your employer and your workers’ compensation representative should have copies of your work restrictions. Make sure that you also have a copy of it for reference. Always work within your restrictions no matter how tempted you are to take up extra hours or to perform extra tasks.
Check Your Employers’ Return to Work Policy
The purpose of a return to work policy is to help you transition back to work. If you are partially disabled, you and your employer need to establish a work plan. This not only shows your employer that you can be a productive employer, but it also shows that you are not a financial burden. Your policy should include:
- Reasonable accommodations that allow you to transition back to work with zero or minimal discomfort and pain
- Communication between you, your doctor, and your employer regarding getting back to work as soon as you are able to do so.
- Verification from your employer that they understand the extent and nature of your injuries.
Can You Get Fired After a Work Injury?
Your employer can legally fire you after a work-related injury. Federal and state laws protect injured workers from illegal firings. Your employer cannot fire you for filing a workers’ compensation claim.
If you have been harassed, denied benefits, or fired because of a work-related injury, you need to contact a workers’ compensation lawyer in Providence.
In some instances, your employer might not hire you back because your previous position is not available. The best your employer can do for you is to give you a job that meets your medical restrictions. They are, however, not legally obligated to give you back your previous job or give you a job that meets your medical restrictions.
When Do You Need a Providence Workers Compensation Lawyer?
If you are having issues with the insurance company, your work-related injuries were caused by your employer or your employer fired you for filing a claim, you can speak to any one of our experienced Providence work injury lawyers. We offer free consultations. Book yours today at 401-751-0101.
