After hurting yourself on the clock, it came as a relief when your employer approved your workers’ compensation claim. It may take you a while to recover, and you could worry about your future with the company.
Chron explores whether companies must keep injured workers’ positions open. Protect your rights and your job by learning the ins and outs of workers’ comp.
Lost-time injuries
If you suffered an injury that prevents you from working, your employer may hire someone to take your place or reallocate your duties. Once you recover enough to return to work, your physician could limit your activities. For instance, you may only carry certain loads or stand for a limited time. If you do not need more time to heal, your employer could rehire you.
Medical injuries
Because medical-only injuries do not affect an employee’s ability to work, they do not result in lost time. Once you receive the proper medical care, you may have limitations on the duties you can complete at work. If you do not need to take time off work, you probably do not have to worry about losing your job.
Light or modified work duties
When you have restrictions on the work you can perform while healing, your physician may approve you for modified or light duty. Your light duties could include some of your standard responsibilities, or you may have new duties if your company hired someone to take over your usual role.
You should not have to worry about your job while healing from a workplace injury. By understanding how workers’ comp works, you give yourself peace of mind.
