Filing a workers’ compensation claim is meant to protect you while you recover from a work-related injury or illness. It provides medical care, income support, and other benefits while you heal. However, there are common pitfalls that can jeopardize your claim and delay your recovery. Knowing what not to do while on workers’ comp helps protect your rights and keeps your focus where it should be—on healing.
Do Not Ignore Your Doctor’s Orders
One of the most important rules while on workers’ compensation is to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations closely. This includes attending all scheduled appointments, completing prescribed physical therapy, taking medications as directed, and following activity restrictions.
Failing to follow medical advice may give insurance adjusters a reason to reduce or deny your benefits. If your doctor says you need rest or limits on activity, stick to the plan. Your health and your claim depend on it.
Do Not Return to Work Too Soon
Feeling better and wanting to get back to work is natural, but returning before you are medically cleared can make your condition worse. It may also complicate your workers’ comp claim. Insurance companies may interpret a premature return as a sign that you are no longer injured or that your injury is not serious.
If you want to return to work sooner, always discuss it with your doctor. If your employer offers modified duties, make sure the changes align with your medical restrictions.
Do Not Exaggerate or Downplay Your Pain
Both exaggerating and downplaying your symptoms can create problems. Exaggeration can lead to suspicion and possibly a loss of credibility with your doctor or the insurance company. If you underreport your pain, you may not receive the treatment you truly need.
Be honest and accurate in describing how your injury affects you. Clear communication helps your doctor provide appropriate care and protects the integrity of your claim.
Do Not Skip Reporting New Symptoms
Injuries evolve, and sometimes new symptoms appear after the initial evaluation. If you begin to experience additional pain, stiffness, numbness, or limitations, report them right away to your healthcare provider and your employer’s workers’ comp representative. Failing to report new issues can make it harder to connect them to your original injury and may affect your benefits.
Timely reporting ensures that your treatment plan stays aligned with your needs and that all aspects of your injury are documented.
Do Not Ignore Paperwork or Deadlines
Workers’ compensation claims involve paperwork, deadlines, and forms that must be completed accurately and submitted on time. Ignoring these requirements can lead to delayed payments or even denial of your claim. Keep copies of everything, track submission dates, and ask questions if anything is unclear.
If the insurance company requests additional information, respond as quickly as possible. Delays can slow down your benefits and create unnecessary stress.
Do Not Post About Your Injury on Social Media
Posting details about your injury or activities on social media may harm your claim. Insurance adjusters often monitor public posts to check on claim legitimacy. Pictures of activities that seem inconsistent with your injury or comments that minimize your pain can be used against you during claim evaluations.
To protect your claim, keep details about your condition private and avoid discussing your case publicly.
Do Not Handle Negotiations Alone
Insurance companies are experienced in managing claims and may use strategies to limit benefits. Handling discussions or negotiations on your own can put you at a disadvantage. An attorney who understands workers’ compensation can help you gather evidence, interpret medical records, and communicate effectively with insurers.
Having professional guidance lets you focus on your health while your legal team looks out for your rights.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what not to do while on workers’ comp protects both your health and your legal rights. Follow your doctor’s orders, report changes in your condition promptly, and stay on top of paperwork and deadlines. Avoid social media posts about your injury and seek professional help if needed.
Taking these steps helps ensure your workers’ compensation claim proceeds smoothly and supports your recovery from injury. If you have questions about your case or want to discuss your options, speaking with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can provide clarity and confidence moving forward.
