When Should I Return to Work After a Workers’ Comp Claim?

 Posted on March 21, 2025 in Workers' Compensation

In 2023, 2.6 million nonfatal workplace illnesses and injuries were reported by private industry employers in the U.S. Workers who become ill or sustain injuries while on the job should receive workers’ compensation benefits to cover their medical expenses, part of their lost income, and other qualifying losses. Like any other type of insurance company, workers’ comp insurance providers do not like paying claims. One way to reduce their payments is to attempt to force injured or ill workers to return to work too soon.

If you experience a workplace injury or illness, we hope you are able to recover fully before returning to work. If your employer or the workers’ comp insurance company tries to make you return before your doctor releases you, one of our knowledgeable Aurora, IL workers’ comp attorneys can help.

How Do I Know When to Return to Work After an Injury or Illness?

If you suffered a workplace illness or injury, you have probably been under a doctor’s care. Your physician has likely treated you and monitored your recovery, adjusting your treatment plan as needed. As a trained medical professional, your doctor will assess your progress and ability to return to your job duties before releasing you. While a physician has the medical knowledge needed to make that assessment, insurance companies and your employer do not.

Your doctor may allow you to return to work with restrictions before fully releasing you. Those restrictions might include shorter shifts, limits to your physical activity, or modifications to your job duties. Your employer should cooperate with the doctor’s restrictions to ensure your safety.

If your doctor releases you, but you believe you are not physically ready to return to work, you may consider getting a second opinion. Your attorney can help you find a qualified doctor.

Should I Just Go Back to Work Even If My Doctor and I Think I Am Not Ready?

The only reason an insurer would want you to return to work is to reduce the amount of benefits they have to pay you. Giving in to those demands can delay your full recovery, create new medical issues, reinjure you, or permanently disable you.

Injured workers have rights. Your employer should not fire you or otherwise retaliate against you for following your doctor’s orders.

Why Do I Need a Lawyer If I Am Being Asked to Go Back to Work Too Soon?

Your work ethic and sense of duty can make it hard for you to tell your boss no. Insurance company representatives can be intimidating, and they may imply you have no choice but to return to work when they tell you to.

Your lawyer can handle communications with the insurer and your employer. We will ensure that your rights are protected and work to see that you receive the full workers’ comp benefits you are entitled to.

Contact a Skilled Aurora, IL Workers’ Comp Attorney Today

When to go back to work after an illness or injury is an important decision you should make with your doctor, not your employer or an insurance company. If you need legal assistance, call Kinnally Flaherty Krentz Loran Hodge & Masur P.C. at 630-907-0909 or contact us online today to request your free consultation with one of our experienced Kane County, IL workers’ compensation lawyers today.