It is only natural to consider getting a new job after suffering a workplace injury. Returning to the same job is likely to bring up bad memories and you may even struggle to do your job because of stress and anxiety about what happened.
However, if you can return to work in some capacity, but you start a new job, can you continue receiving workers’ compensation benefits?
This is a question you can discuss with one of the experienced lawyers at Schmidt Kramer. The initial consultation about your workers’ compensation claim is free of charge and comes with no obligation to hire our firm. Whether you have been denied or are still filing your claim, we may be able to assist you.
Changing Jobs While on Workers’ Comp
The simple answer to this question is yes. You can switch jobs and continue receiving workers’ compensation benefits. Your benefits cannot be cancelled simply because you changed jobs. However, the job must pay less than what you were paid before the injury occurred. This also applies if you return to work at your current employer, whether you are back in the same job or in a different role.
If you can return to work at the same rate of pay as before your injury, workers’ compensation benefits will no longer be paid out.
If you switch jobs and are still eligible for benefits you should receive two-thirds of the difference between your pre-injury wages and your current wages. In other words, multiply the difference between pre- and post-injury wages by two-thirds and that is how much you would receive in benefits.
It is important to inform the workers’ compensation insurance company about your impending job change to help prevent any delays in receiving benefits.
Are There Downsides to Switching Jobs While on Workers’ Comp?
It is up to you to make choices about your career and the types of jobs you want to work. However, it is important to follow the doctor’s orders about returning to work and limiting physical activity.
It is a bad idea to start working before the doctor says you are ready to do so. You could reaggravate your injury or potentially cause a new one. It is understandable that you want to get back to work as soon as possible, but you should be cautious.
Talk to your doctor about the new job and the physical demands it may place on your body. That will help your doctor determine if this is a job that fits within your work restrictions.
Could Changing Jobs Delay a Settlement?
Many workers’ compensation claims are settled, as opposed to continuing to pay out benefits over a long period of time. However, if you leave a company, they may not work to settle your claim as quickly. If you stay at the same company, there is an incentive to settle so they can avoid future claims about the same injury.
While the decision about changing jobs is up to you, it is important to be informed about the consequences of this decision.
What if Your Job is in a New State?
If you are planning to take a job in another state, or far enough away that you will not be able to see the same doctors, keep your employer and workers’ compensation insurance company informed. Make sure you provide your new doctors with medical records from your old doctors.
Call for Help with Your Workers’ Comp Claim
Our licensed Harrisburg-based workers’ compensation lawyers have extensive knowledge of Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system. We are ready to assist you in pursuing the benefits you need during this difficult time.
At Schmidt Kramer, there are no upfront fees and no fees while we work on your claim. We do not get paid for our services unless we obtain compensation for you.
Schmidt Kramer. Experienced Attorneys. Proven Results. Call (717) 888-8888.