Out On Worker's Compensation? 3 Mistakes You Should Avoid

19 July 2016
 Categories: Law, Blog

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If you've been injured on the job, the last thing you want to do is jeopardize your benefits. Workers compensation benefits are designed to provide for your medical care and financial needs while you're unable to work. Some activities, which might seem insignificant, can actually undermine your claim and make it difficult for you to receive the compensation you're entitled to. Here are three mistakes you should avoid while collecting worker's compensation.

Physical Activities

While you're collecting worker's compensation, you need to avoid physical activities, especially those that go against your current limitations. For instance, if your doctor has placed limits on what you can lift, or on the activities you can safely perform, you should avoid pushing those limits. If you've been ordered to avoid lifting heavy objects and you're caught outside carrying heavy boxes into the house, that evidence that be used to deny your benefits. Once your doctor gives you a list of activities you should avoid, be sure to follow those restrictions.

Workplace Visits

You may want to go visit your co-workers, but if you've suffered a work-related injury, you should avoid workplace visits. Your employer will be able to use those visits as evidence of your recovery, even if you're still under a doctor's care. Instead of risking your worker's compensation benefits, have your co-workers visit you at home. This will allow to visit with your co-workers without giving your employer or insurance company information to use against you.

Social Media Updates

Social media is a great way to keep in contact with your friends while you're recovering from your injuries. Unfortunately, it's also a great way for the insurance company to monitor your activities. While you're receiving worker's compensation benefits, you should refrain from posting updates about your recovery on social media sites. This includes photographs that show family gatherings and other types of activities. You never know when one picture will show you walking across the lawn when you should have been using a wheelchair. Whether you suddenly have a burst of energy or not, avoid social media updates until after your claim has been settled.

If you've been injured on the job, you need to do everything you can to protect your benefits. Use the information provided here to help you avoid making mistakes that could come back to cause problems later on. If you have questions or concerns regarding your worker's compensation claim, be sure to speak to legal professionals such as Prediletto, Halpin, Scharnikow & Nelson, P.S.