People who suffer work-related injuries often look for a job change. These employees usually wish to switch careers and work in a low-risk industry, especially if the injuries they suffered were severe or life-threatening. In other cases, the employees may need to change jobs if their injury prevents them from doing the same work as before.
But is it possible to switch jobs while still receiving worker’s compensation? Read on to find out.
Will you be entitled to the same benefits if you get a new job? From a legal perspective, all employees have the right to switch jobs any time they wish, even if they are receiving worker’s compensation benefits. However, sometimes, it may not be as simple as that.
Any decision you make regarding your job change could impact your compensation amount. For instance, the law permits you to receive compensation benefits if you accept a light-duty job with less salary. In that case, you may still receive partial benefits, but your weekly rate may not be the same as before. However, if your new job pays you the same amount as the former one, your benefits may cease entirely.
Injured workers usually opt for part-time jobs until they recover fully from their injuries. These part-time gigs help them recover better and allow them to take care of their financial needs. While part-time jobs sound like a great option, it is vital to note that any income received from such a job will reduce the amount of your existing weekly benefit.
If, as a part-time employee, you get paid and do not report your income to your current employer, it will be considered insurance fraud.
Many injured workers consider taking on a new or part-time job to meet their financial needs or out of monotony. However, there are some potential risks you should be aware of before taking this step:
So, it is best to consult your doctor before you return to work. Doctors usually conduct detailed scans and examinations to decide if you are ready to work again. If your job demands a lot of physical strain, it’s best to wait until full recovery.
Lastly, you must understand that your employer is not legally bound to retain you once you have made a full recovery. So, if you take up a new job, you may not be able to go back to your former position after recovering.
Filing for worker’s compensation benefits on your own can sometimes become an overwhelming task. This is where professional help becomes vital.
Regas & Haag Attorneys are committed to helping clients navigate the legal system. Our experienced and skilled attorneys can address all your queries and ensure you receive the highest compensation you’re eligible for. You can contact us by visiting our website or calling at (330) 649-9102 to get started.