What to Expect When Going Back After a Workplace Injury
Recovering from an on-the-job accident can be a challenging journey. And the thought of going back after a workplace injury might bring you a mix of relief and anxiety.
You’re likely eager to get back to a normal routine, but you might also have concerns about your health and whether you can perform your job like before. Maybe you worry you’ll get fatigued quickly. Perhaps you feel embarrassed about ways your body has changed while in recovery.
As a Memphis workers’ compensation attorney, I can promise you, you’re not alone. A lot of people feel these insecurities when returning after a workplace injury.
So here’s what you should know about your rights and responsibilities during this critical time, so you can make informed decisions about how and when you return to work.
Understanding Your Rights
First and foremost, you have the right to receive proper medical care for your injury. This includes:
- ongoing treatments
- physical therapy
- surgeries required due to the workplace accident.
- and medical assistance, including wheelchairs, braces, etc, as appropriate.
Workers’ compensation should cover these expenses, and you should never feel pressured to stop treatment prematurely for the sake of returning to work.
In addition, when your doctor clears you to go back to work, it doesn’t always mean jumping right back into your old routine. Depending on your recovery, you might be able to start with light or modified duties.
Your employer should accommodate your limitations as per your doctor’s recommendations. If your job can’t be adjusted to meet your needs temporarily, you may still be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
Lastly, remember it’s illegal for your employer to discriminate against you because of your injury. You can’t be fired, demoted, or treated differently just because you filed a workers’ comp claim or because you’re returning with restrictions.
Your Responsibilities as You Return Back to Work
Your recovery and successful return to work rely heavily on clear communication. So keep your employer and medical providers informed about your condition and any changes in your health.
If you’re struggling with your assigned tasks, speak up. Honest communication can help your team to adjust your workload or explore other accommodations.
In addition, you have to follow your doctor’s orders. This is a critical part of workers’ comp. Attend all your scheduled appointments and follow through with prescribed treatments. If you fail to follow their medical guidance, it could impact your benefits.
Lastly, as you prepare to return, try to cooperate as much as possible with your employer. If your employer offers you a suitable modified role that complies with your doctor’s orders, you’re generally expected to accept it. And if there’s a valid reason it won’t work for your situation, talk openly and kindly with them about the problem.
They won’t always be quite as respectful to you. Many employers can be difficult after a workplace injury and even break the law as a result. But the more even-tempered and open you are, the better your chances of returning without incident.
Seeking Legal Advice After a Workplace Injury
Navigating the return to work after an injury can be complex, and sometimes disputes arise. If something serious happens, a knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer can offer guidance and support.
More importantly, you can’t get any of this support if you can’t get workers’ comp in the first place. Our home state of Tennessee has some of the strictest workers’ comp laws in the country, and it can be a frustrating experience without legal help.
So if you’ve been injured in a workplace injury, we’re here to help. Our award-winning attorneys take on your case and fight for you every step of the way – and we don’t win anything unless and until we win your case.
Remember, you’re not alone in this process. If you have questions or need help understanding your legal rights and options, contact us online 24/7 or call us at 901-327-2100.
We’re here to ensure your rights are protected and to assist you in getting back to work safely and confidently.