As the weather gets warmer, millions of people prepare to enjoy the summertime with their friends, families, and loved ones. Everyone deserves a vacation and as someone who was injured on the job, you may feel frustrated at the prospect of stopping your life, even temporarily.
Though you are technically allowed to go on vacation while receiving workers’ compensation, you must exercise caution in doing so. Many people are tempted by the prospect of partaking in activities they enjoy, ignoring the potential dangers of worsening their injuries or losing their benefits. However, there are significant reasons why you should think twice before going on vacation after sustaining a workplace injury.
If you find yourself debating whether or not to take a trip this summer, you will have to consider the following:
- Schedules – You are not permitted to miss or cancel any appointments in relation to your injury unless in case of emergency. Rescheduling or not showing up may be viewed as a failure to comply with doctor’s orders.
- Medical restrictions – Your leading physician may prohibit you from physically exerting yourself and no matter how relaxing your vacation is, traveling can greatly aggravate your injuries.
- Investigations – When you file for workers’ compensation, consider yourself under surveillance from then onward. Do not underestimate the lengths an insurance company is willing to go to, including hiring a personal investigator to ensure the legitimacy of your claim. If you are seen doing things you shouldn’t be able to, your benefits will be at risk.
- Job mandates – The state of Virginia requires you to look for another job while on workers’ compensation benefits. If you are not under an open award for your claim, you must be looking for 5-7 jobs a week. Failing to do so essentially forfeits your rights to temporary total disability benefits for that week.
Trusted Attorneys Tirelessly Advocating for Injured Workers for Over 75 Years
The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC is led by a highly-esteemed legal team devoted to successfully representing the needs of injured employees fighting for the rights they deserve. Our knowledgeable and capable workers’ compensation lawyers in Virginia refuse to back down from the challenge of ensuring your needs are met and your voice is heard. We offer free case evaluations and will handle your case with precision and impeccable skill.
There is no time to waste before you schedule an initial consultation with a skilled member of our firm by calling (571) 290-2390.