Injured On The Job? 4 Pitfalls You Should Avoid While You're Out On Workers Compensation
If you're collecting workers compensation, there are some very important things that you shouldn't do. Everyone will tell you what you should do when you've been injured on the job, but they rarely tell you about the things that could harm your case. So before you do something that could jeopardize your workers compensation case, here's a list of things you shouldn't do while you're case is proceeding through the court system.
Tell Your Employer You're Fine
This might seem like a simple thing, but if you tell your employee that you're feeling fine, that can signal that you're ready to return to work. If you're feeling better, it's okay to tell your employer that, but never say you're feeling fine.
Exaggerate Your Injuries
The insurance company will have their own doctors looking at your medical records. They'll know how extensive your injuries are. Exaggerating the extent of your injuries may result in problems for you later on, especially if the insurance company decides to fight your injury claims. Be honest about your injuries, especially to your doctors.
Return To Work Before You're Ready
If your recovery period has been lengthy, you may be tempted to return to work before you're ready. That's one of the worst things you can do. Going back to work before you're completely healed may limit the amount of compensation you can receive. It may also cause an exacerbation of your injuries. To protect your rights, and to prevent further injury, don't return to work until your doctor clears you.
Participate in Strenuous Activities
You're out of work due to injuries. This is not the time to participate in a friendly game of football. It's also not the time to take the garbage out, or mow the lawn. If you're trying to get monetary compensation for your injuries, the insurance company will be monitoring your activities.
Getting caught doing things you're doctor has said you can't do, may result in your case being dismissed. It may also result in fraud charges being filed against you. Limit your activities to the ones your doctor says you can participate in.
If you've been injured on the job, it's important that you not do anything that could hinder your case. If you have questions about other activities you should avoid, be sure to discuss them with your lawyer. Your workers compensation lawyer will help you avoid costly problems with your workers compensation case.
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