After a work-related injury, it's not only the worker's place to decide when they should return to work. The decision often rests with both the doctor and the workers' compensation insurer. If you are worried about what might happen after an injury, read below.

Are You Ready?

Even though it's not entirely your decision to make, that doesn't mean hurt workers don't have any input into when to return to work. In most cases, your doctor will discuss your progress with you during an appointment and both of you together will decide on a return date. However, some workers' comp doctors may try to rush things and send you back to work too soon. If you are being told that it's time to return to work but are not ready, speak to a workers' compensation lawyer and find out what your rights are. You have the right to appeal that and any other ruling, in many cases. You may also ask for special restrictions or accommodations before you go back to work. For example, you may need to do light-duty work only for a while.

When More Information is Needed

In some cases, it's not just the workers' comp doctor that seems to be rushing things. The workers' compensation insurer may be ready for you to return to work too. After all, they are having to pay you a partial salary and for your medical expenses while you are out of work. If the insurer needs additional information, they may ask you to attend a special medical examination by a different doctor. The doctor will evaluate your injury or illness and decide on a return to work or not. They may also decide that you need more time at home to recuperate or that you have an injury that is not expected to heal.  If you disagree with the ruling, speak to a workers' compensation lawyer and don't return to work.

Offered a Settlement

If the workers' compensation insurer decides that your injury is not healing, they may offer you a settlement. This money should be enough to substitute for your previous salary until you reach retirement age. Don't agree to anything until you speak to a workers' compensation lawyer. They will figure out what you deserve and work with the insurer to get you that money. This is an important turning point and agreeing to an inadequate settlement could be a very big mistake.

Speak to a workers' compensation lawyer to find out more.