When an injury at work sidelines a Connecticut employee, workers’ compensation benefits come into play. These benefits offer financial support during the recovery period, but what happens when these benefits end, and the individual is not ready to return to work?
Consider the options you can take when this situation occurs.
Understanding when workers’ compensation benefits cease
Typically, workers’ compensation benefits continue until the injured worker can return to work, or a doctor determines the condition has stabilized and will not improve with further treatment. However, situations can arise where benefits end while the worker is still unable to perform their job duties. This presents a challenging predicament for the injured individual.
Reviewing medical evidence
The first step in navigating this issue is to obtain a comprehensive review of the individual’s medical condition. Seek medical opinions and gather necessary documentation to demonstrate that the worker is still unfit to return to work. This evidence can be crucial in any discussions regarding the continuation of workers’ compensation benefits.
Communicating with the employer
Open communication with the employer becomes crucial when a worker is about to exhaust their workers’ compensation benefits but is not ready to return to work. Discussing the current medical condition, recovery prognosis and the potential to return to work can help both parties understand each other’s perspectives and look for a mutually beneficial solution.
Exploring disability benefits
If workers’ compensation benefits are about to end, another option may be to apply for disability benefits. Both short-term and long-term disability benefits can provide financial assistance if an individual is unable to work due to their injury or illness. Remember, eligibility requirements and benefits vary, so it is important to research and understand what is available.
When workers’ compensation benefits are about to end and the individual is not ready to return to work, it can be a stressful situation. Ultimately, it is important to prioritize the individual’s health and well-being during this process, ensuring they do not rush back to work before they are physically ready.
