If you have been injured on the job and have been receiving workers’ compensation benefits, you may be wondering if you can still receive a settlement if you go back to work. The answer depends on a few different factors, including the severity of your injury, your ability to perform your job duties, and the laws in your state. Here is a closer look at what you need to know about getting a settlement from workers’ compensation if you go back to work.
First, it’s important to understand that workers’ compensation is designed to provide financial assistance to employees who are unable to work due to a job-related injury or illness. The benefits can include medical treatment, wage replacement, and other forms of financial support. In general, workers’ compensation is designed to help you get back to work as quickly as possible, and many states have programs in place to help injured workers return to their jobs.
However, if your injury is severe enough that you are unable to return to work, or if you are unable to perform your job duties due to your injury, you may be eligible for a settlement from workers’ compensation. A settlement is a lump sum payment that is meant to compensate you for your lost wages and other damages related to your injury.
There are a few different types of settlements that you may be eligible for, depending on the specifics of your case. These include:
- Structured settlements: A structured settlement is a long-term payment plan that is designed to provide you with regular payments over a set period of time. This type of settlement is often used when an injured worker is expected to have ongoing medical needs or when the worker’s injuries are expected to have a long-term impact on their ability to work.
- Lump sum settlements: A lump sum settlement is a one-time payment that is intended to compensate you for your injuries and other damages. This type of settlement is often used when an injured worker’s medical treatment is complete and they are able to return to work.
- Compromise and release settlements: A compromise and release settlement is a one-time payment that is meant to compensate you for your injuries and other damages. In exchange for the settlement, you agree to release your employer and the workers’ compensation insurance company from any further liability related to your injury.
If you are considering going back to work after an injury, it’s important to understand how it may impact your workers’ compensation benefits. In general, if you are able to return to work and perform your job duties, you will likely no longer be eligible for wage replacement benefits from workers’ compensation. However, you may still be entitled to receive medical treatment and other benefits, depending on the specifics of your case.
It’s also worth noting that the amount of your settlement may be affected by your return to work. If you are able to return to work and earn the same or a similar wage as you were earning before your injury, your settlement may be lower than if you were unable to work at all. This is because your settlement is meant to compensate you for your lost wages and other damages, and if you are able to return to work and earn a wage, your damages will be less.
It’s important to note that workers’ compensation laws vary by state, so it’s a good idea to consult with a workers’ compensation attorney or other legal professional if you have questions about your rights and entitlements. An attorney can help you understand your options and ensure that you are receiving the full benefits you are entitled to under the law.
In summary, it is possible to receive a settlement from workers’ compensation if you go back to work, but the specifics of your case will determine whether you are eligible for a settlement and the amount you may receive.