Returning to Work While Pursuing a Workers’ Compensation Claim

Georgia workers’ compensation laws do encourage you to try to return to work as soon as you are able. But going back too soon, while you are still injured or under inappropriate circumstances, could impact and devalue your overall claim.

If you try to return to work too soon, or aggravate your injury, you may need to return home or accept an offer of a switch to light duties as outlined in a WC-240. If a doctor has certified that you are capable of light duty work, you are compelled to try as previously discussed. If you decline appropriate and legal efforts to get back to work, you may risk losing your benefits.

It is important to note that you can continue to get medical treatment for a worsening condition as long as you have not entered into a final settlement agreement. You can even go back to work while you are still engaged in your case proceedings and if there are legal disputes over your payments, as long as you have not entered into settlement agreement.

Before returning to work, it is advisable to seek experienced counsel to make sure you are protecting your rights and the integrity of your claim and benefits.