Returning to work after a workplace injury
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Returning to work after a workplace injury can be challenging. Knowing your rights in Pennsylvania helps, because it better ensures a smooth transition and protects your job.
If you need to file for workers’ compensation, it is important to understand how the law protects you after a workplace injury.
Workers’ compensation benefits
In Pennsylvania, worker’s compensation benefits cover the costs you need to live your day-to-day life. Medical care benefits should cover all necessary treatments related to your injury. Lost wage benefits should cover your living expenses until you can return to work.
Return-to-work rights
When you’re ready to return to work, certain rights protect you:
Your restrictions, the proposed job duties and the medical evidence matter when assessing a return-to-work offer and its effect on benefits. Pennsylvania workers’ compensation does not itself guarantee your former job or require an employer to create a modified position. Seek prompt advice if you dispute an offer or a proposed change to benefits.
Ensure your healthcare provider approves your return to work and outlines any limitations you’re under.
Employer obligations
Separate disability-employment laws may require reasonable accommodation for a qualified worker when the employer is covered. The duty is fact-specific and does not invariably require creating a new position. Additionally, you can’t be subject to retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim or for returning to work with restrictions.
Returning to work is a big step
Returning to work after a workmen’s compensation claim can be stressful. Contact a Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Specialist today for a free, no-obligation consultation to learn how we can help you. Call 610-892-9300 or reach out to us online.