What Not To Do While On Workers' Comp?

What Not To Do While On Workers' Comp

When you're hurt at work, Workers' Compensation provides protection for the injured worker. In most cases, you're eligible for medical care, some wage replacement, and, in the most extreme cases, disability benefits, and death benefits. However, there are things you should not do while seeking compensation for a work-related injury. This blog will outline what not to do while on Workers' Comp, and will provide examples so that you understand the downside of disregarding Workers' Comp policies.

Don't Work While on Workers' Comp

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when recovering from a work injury is to perform any job duties while still on Workers' Comp. If you're able to work in any capacity, then you're legally considered to be able to return to your regular job, and your employer is no longer obligated to pay for your Workers' Comp benefits. It's also important to note that insurance adjusters may be monitoring your recovery, and are likely to review your medical history and surveillance videos, in order to determine if you are dishonestly claiming Workers' Comp benefits.

If you are able to return to work as part of your recovery, you must be sure that your doctor and the insurance adjuster have been notified in order to remain eligible for benefits. You must also be sure that any job duties assigned to you should not be in any way hazardous or over exerting, which could further worsen your medical condition.

Don't Refuse Medical Treatment

Another mistake to avoid while using Workers' Comp is to refuse necessary medical treatment. Insurance adjusters review medical records and treatments closely, and may deny any claims of workers' compensation benefits if they suspect you are denying medical treatments that are necessary for your recovery. It's important to take note of any medical treatments offered to you, and to make sure that all questions and concerns are addressed before deciding to turn down any treatments or medications. This will ensure the best possible outcome for your recovery.

If you are subjected to any unnecessary treatments or if the treatment plan approved by the doctor is not followed, then you may be entitled to seek further medical treatments or other legal remedies. You should also be aware of any potential health risks involved with the treatment plan, and make sure that all treatments and medications prescribed are necessary for your recovery.

Don't Take Settlement Offers Too Soon

If you are offered a settlement following a work injury, it may be tempting to take the offer right away. However, settling too soon can be catastrophic for your case. Insurance companies may offer settlements before damages can be fully calculated, leaving you unable to sue for further compensation should your medical bills and other losses exceed the original settlement. It's important to consult a Workers' Comp lawyer before signing any settlement documents, and to discuss all of your legal options in order to ensure that you are being properly compensated for all of your losses.

It's also important to be aware of potential risks associated with a settlement, including discontinuation of medical treatments necessary for recovery. In most cases, a settlement would require you to waive the right to further benefits, leaving you responsible for any ongoing medical treatments or lost wages.

Don't Skip Appointments and Don't Miss Deadlines

When seeking workers' compensation, it's important to attend all doctors' appointments and attend hearings as scheduled. Failure to do so can put your case in jeopardy, and can result in the denial of benefits. It's also important to note that you must file a Workers' Comp claim within a certain time period in order to remain eligible for benefits, so it's crucial to be aware of any deadlines that may apply to your particular case.

If you are unable to attend an appointment due to illness or an injury, be sure that your doctor is notified in advance. If you are unable to attend a hearing due to an illness or other emergency, it's important to file a motion for a continuance in advance, so that the hearing can be rescheduled. If these requirements aren't properly met, your case might be dismissed or put on hold, resulting in a loss of benefits.

Don't Provide False Information

Finally, it's important to never provide any false or misleading information while on Workers' Comp. It's illegal to lie or give false information when submitting your Workers' Comp claim, or when requested information from medical personnel or insurance companies. Doing so can result in criminal charges, as well as loss of all Workers' Comp benefits.

It's also important to keep copies of any paperwork that you submit, as well as records of any communication with insurance companies or medical personnel. This will ensure that no information is misstated or misrepresented, which could lead to the denial of your Workers' Comp claim.

When injured on the job, it's important to protect your rights to Workers' Comp and to understand what not to do while seeking Workers' Comp benefits. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that you are properly compensated for your work-related injuries.