Ravosa Law Offices, PC

Most of my clients who have been injured want to return to work as soon as they can, but they are often unsure about how this process will work. 

With that in mind, I wanted to proactively outline some advice regarding a return to work: 

• Maintain open communication. Make sure you are communicating with your employer during and after the treatment process so they have an estimated time frame in mind. Doing so can also help them prepare for any accommodations that may be required for your return. 
• Do not return to work too early. Returning to work too early can cause you to reinjure yourself or slow your healing and affect your ability to contribute fully to your job. It’s always better to wait until you are cleared by your doctor. 
• Reach out if you receive a Notice of Ability to Return to Work. You may receive a Notice of Ability to Return to Work form from the doctor affiliated with the insurance company. This suggested return-to-work timeline may clash with your personal doctor’s recommendation. Keep in mind that this does not mean you have to return to work, but it does mean the insurance company is considering removing or limiting your benefits. Given that, you should quickly get in contact with legal representation when this happens; we will likely recommend receiving a second opinion from another doctor as soon as possible. There’s no need to panic, however, as a judge will usually review your case before any benefits are suspended or rescinded.
• Follow – and file away – work restrictions. If your doctor has recommended any restrictions upon returning to work, such as modified lifting, sitting, or standing, make sure your employer and direct supervisor know and that you keep a copy of these restrictions on you when you return to work.  
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Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that you shouldn’t be forced to return to work before you are healthy, and we’re here to help you if such a situation arises.

With that said, if you have any questions about returning to work after an injury or workers’ compensation rights in general, please do not hesitate to reach out.