If you were injured at work and are currently receiving workers’ compensation benefits, there are a few things you need to know in order to keep those benefits. You may think that there is no way you could lose your benefits, but nothing could be further from the truth. It doesn’t take much for an investigation to take place. An anonymous tip from a co-worker or neighbor are only two examples. Of course, the tip doesn’t have to be based on fact. It could just be a co-worker that is angry because they are hard at work while you are perceived as kicking back watching television at home. Here’s what you need to know.
Be careful what you do in public
Never be seen in public doing anything that would suggest that you have been exaggerating your injury. Follow your doctor’s instructions concerning your recovery. If you’re not supposed to walk, then do not walk, especially in public. It is in public where you will be spotted, and sometimes even recorded on video. This damning evidence can cost you your benefits. This is not to say that you are exaggerating your injury, but insurance company’s are always looking for ways to deny claims and to cancel a person’s benefits after receiving them. What you want to avoid doing is giving them an excuse to take away your benefits.
Do not miss your physical therapy appointments
Of course, if there is a compelling reason to miss an appointment, such as sickness, then you must reschedule, but if a doctor has recommended physical therapy, then you must go. If you don’t, this can be grounds to deny further payments to you. In addition, if you find yourself not physically able to return to work when an insurance company thinks you should be back, you will be on firm ground if you have been going to therapy.
Remember to follow your doctor’s instruction for rehabilitation. If you find yourself having trouble with your benefits, then contact a workers compensation attorney salem oregon immediately.