Whether you have an open workers’ compensation case or you are receiving benefits, you are allowed to go on vacation. You can still enjoy your life, even while you are recovering from a work-related injury, so long as your status as a disabled employee attempting to recover and return to work does not conflict with your plans.
However, there are certain factors that you need to be mindful of while taking a trip with loved ones. Or else, it could be possible you could lose your case or benefits.
You Must Follow the Doctor’s Orders
If you tell your doctor that you plan on going on vacation, he/she may advise you to avoid certain activities, such as hiking, surfing, jet skiing, or skydiving. Therefore, if you cannot resist the urge to join your family members in all the fun, not only do you run the risk of reaggravating your injury, but going against your doctor’s recommendations can also result in losing your case or benefits.
You Cannot Miss or Reschedule Your Medical Appointments
You must make sure that your vacation does not cause you to miss any of your appointments with your doctor, physical therapist, or any other healthcare provider. Workers’ compensation insurers frown upon injured employees receiving benefits for rescheduling an appointment because of a vacation. If your benefits are denied, it is difficult to restore them.
Your Activity Will Be Monitored
Insurance companies often hire private investigators to keep an eye on you, whether you are on vacation or not. If an investigator gathers evidence to show the insurer that your injury is not as serious as you originally claimed, you could lose your case or benefits.
Additionally, you should be careful how what you share on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Tik Tok. Insurers and investigators can easily access your social media accounts or access your friends’ or family members’ accounts, especially if their profiles are public.
If your workers’ compensation benefits have been denied in Orange County, CA, call Alvandi Law Group at (800) 980-6905 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you.