After working hard day in and day out, everyone deserves a vacation from time to time. This also applies to those who have suffered workplace injuries and are currently at home recovering.
But, can a person on workers’ compensation go on vacation? The answer is absolutely you can. Just because you are hurt doesn’t mean you can have fun and enjoy your life.
However, there are certain things you should be mindful of while you’re away, such as the following:
- Going against the doctor’s recommendations – From hiking and skydiving to jet skiing and surfing, vacation can consist of several activities which could provide a significant amount of excitement and adrenaline. Yet, perhaps there are certain activities you cannot participate in due to your injury, especially if your doctor specifically rules against them. Not only can you run the risk of reinjuring yourself and increasing your recovery process, but you may also lose your workers’ compensation benefits. The best thing to do while on vacation is to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
- Missing or rescheduling an appointment – As a requirement for receiving workers’ comp benefits, you must visit a doctor, surgeon, physical therapist, or any other health care provider whenever you are scheduled to do so. If you go on vacation for a long time, you run the risk of missing one of these appointments. Unfortunately, your employer’s insurance company may view missing an appointment or rescheduling an existing one as failing to comply with medical treatment. If you are not in danger of missing or rescheduling any doctor appointments, you don’t need to worry.
- You are always being monitored – It is not uncommon for insurers to hire private investigators to keep tabs on you, whether you are at home or on vacation. Their goal is to find any evidence which could harm your workers’ comp claim or prove your injuries are not as serious as you originally said. If an investigator records you going against the doctor’s orders, you could lose your benefits. Furthermore, you could provide harmful evidence on your own by posting and sharing photos or videos from your vacation on various social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. While you’re enjoying your vacation, keep in mind someone might be watching and don’t post any photos or videos which could harm your claim.
For more information about receiving benefits on vacation, contact our Orange County workers’ compensation attorney at Humphrey & Associates and schedule a free consultation. Let us help you develop an itinerary which doesn’t jeopardize your workers’ comp claim.