What Do You Do If Your Employer is Violating Your Light Duty Restrictions?

Sustaining a work-related injury is painful and sometimes challenging. It becomes even more difficult when your employer fails to honor your light-duty restrictions.

When your employer is asking you to perform tasks beyond your doctor’s prescribed limitations, it’s crucial to understand your rights and take appropriate action.

There are some steps you can take if your employer is violating your light-duty restrictions. To find out what options you have, it’s a good idea to consult with an Indianapolis workers’ compensation attorney.

5 Things You Can Do When an Employer Doesn’t Honor Your Work Restrictions

1. Your Light Duty Restrictions

Begin by thoroughly understanding the light-duty restrictions specified by your treating physician. These restrictions are designed to ensure your safety and promote your recovery. Take the time to review your medical documentation and discuss any concerns or confusion with your healthcare provider. By clearly understanding your limitations, you can better advocate for your rights.

2. Communicate with Your Employer

Open lines of communication are essential in addressing the violation of your light-duty restrictions. Notify your employer immediately, preferably in writing, about the situation and provide them with a copy of the work restrictions prescribed by your doctor. Clearly explain the discrepancy between the assigned tasks and your medical limitations. Request a meeting with your employer or the appropriate personnel to discuss the issue and seek a resolution.

3. Document Everything

Maintain a detailed record of all interactions and incidents related to the violation of your light duty restrictions. Keep copies of any communication, emails, or letters exchanged with your employer regarding your work restrictions. Note dates, times, and individuals involved in conversations or incidents where you were asked to perform tasks beyond your limitations. This documentation will serve as crucial evidence if you need to escalate the matter.

4. Seek Legal Advice

If your employer persists in violating your light duty restrictions despite your efforts to address the issue directly, consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney may be necessary.

An experienced workers comp lawyer in Indianapolis can assess your case, advise you on the legal options available, and guide you through workers’ compensation system. Your attorney will advocate for your rights, represent your interests, and take appropriate legal action to ensure your employer complies with the prescribed restrictions.

5. Report the Violation

In Indiana, there are specific reporting procedures through the Worker’s Compensation Board of Indiana to address violations of light duty restrictions. You can file a dispute with the Worker’s Compensation Board (WCB), and a case coordinator will contact the employer about the violation.

You will be asked to provide the case coordinator with all relevant documentation. The WCB will investigate the matter and take appropriate action against your employer if necessary.

Dealing with a violation of your light-duty restrictions can be frustrating and detrimental to your recovery. However, by understanding your rights, effectively communicating with your employer, documenting incidents, seeking legal advice, and reporting the violation, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself.

Remember, you have the right to a safe and accommodating work environment that supports your rehabilitation.

Contact an Indiana Workers’ Compensation Attorney

When dealing with a violation of your light duty restrictions by your employer, it’s crucial to seek guidance from an experienced Indiana workers compensation attorney. An attorney specializing in workman’s comp can provide valuable legal advice tailored to your specific situation and help you navigate the complexities of the legal process.

By consulting with an Indianapolis workers compensation attorney, you can:

• Receive a comprehensive evaluation of your case. An attorney will review the details of your injury, medical records, work restrictions, and the actions of your employer. They can determine the strength of your case and advise you on the best course of action.
• Understand your rights and legal options. Indiana workers compensation laws are complex, but a workers compensation attorney near your will explain your rights and legal options clearly. A lawyer will guide you through the process and ensure you are aware of the potential outcomes and the steps involved in seeking justice.
• File an appeal. If your employer continues to violate your light duty restrictions despite your efforts to resolve the issue, an attorney can assist you in filing a claim or an appeal with the Worker’s Compensation Board. They will handle the necessary paperwork, gather evidence, and represent your interests throughout the legal proceedings.
• Negotiate your benefits. In some cases, you may be entitled to temporary disability benefits if your employer cannot accommodate your light duty work restrictions. Your attorney will negotiate on your behalf with your employer’s insurance company to secure benefits that cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and any potential permanent impairment settlement.
• Provide representation in court. If your case escalates to a hearing, having a skilled attorney by your side is essential. They will present a compelling case on your behalf, and advocate for your rights to ensure the best possible outcome.

There are time-sensitive dates for filing claims and appeals for workers compensation. Contacting an attorney as soon as possible will help protect your rights and deadlines for filing the necessary paperwork.

When you find yourself facing a violation of your light duty restrictions by your employer, don’t hesitate to seek the assistance of the top-rated Indiana work injury attorneys at Klezmer Maudlin.

Call 317-597-6293 or contact a worker’s compensation lawyer online for a free case evaluation.