While it may not be possible in every situation, your goal is most likely to return to work after an injury or illness. Your condition will heal to the point where you can go back, but it rarely happens overnight. It may take time, and you may need restricted or limited job duties. You have the right to return to work based on your medical timeline — not your employer’s needs.
At The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, our attorneys will not disappear once we have maximized your workers’ compensation benefits. When we promise to treat you like our only client, that includes making sure that when the time comes for you to return to work, you are given the time and help you need in order to do so safely.
The Law Office of Bryan Hawkins should be your first choice for Workman’s Compensation claims. Mr. Hawkins is understanding, honest, and very responsive while helping his clients. He goes above and beyond what any attorney I have dealt with has ever done. He gave my son peace of mind by explaining the paperwork he received so he could understand what was expected of him. He was polite, and sincerely wants what is best for his client. I highly recommend Bryan S. Hawkins.
What Should You Know About Returning To Work After An Injury?
For a number of reasons, employers often pressure people to return as soon as possible after a work injury — even threatening your job if you do not return. No reason is okay for your employer to dictate the terms of your return. It is important enough to repeat: You have the right to return to work based on your medical timeline, not your employer’s needs.
There are a few other things that you should know about returning to work:
- You can request reasonable restrictions: You can request light duty or other job restrictions based on your physician’s instructions. Your boss must comply with reasonable requests.
- You have a right to a second opinion: If your physician has cleared you for work but you feel that it is too soon, you can get a second opinion.
- Never ignore a WC-240 form: This form relates to a process in Georgia law that allows employers to compel an employee back to work once when a physician has signed off on light duty. If the worker refuses, the employer can unilaterally suspend their benefits. If you have received this form, call us immediately.
About Bryan S. Hawkins
Bryan S. Hawkins is a Georgia Workers’ Compensation attorney representing injured employees before the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation. With over 2000 claims handled and past experience as an insurance defense attorney, Bryan offers unmatched insight and dedicated advocacy for injured workers across Georgia.
Education and Experience
A graduate of Mississippi College School of Law and the University of Georgia, Bryan is admitted to practice in multiple Georgia courts. Since opening his Augusta firm in 2009, he has built a reputation for providing compassionate and effective representation backed by deep legal experience and professional integrity.
Call Us Now For A Free Initial Consultation
Has your employer pressured you to return to work too soon? Was your request for light duty denied? It is time to talk to us — our lawyers can help. Schedule a free initial consultation today by calling our Augusta office at 706-305-1130. You can also conveniently submit your information online. We promptly return all messages.