Getting hurt on the job is stressful enough. Dealing with workers’ comp can make it even more frustrating – especially if you’re not sure what you should or shouldn’t be doing.
One wrong move can delay your checks, mess with your medical treatment, or even get your claim denied altogether. No one wants that.
So before you make any decisions, here’s a quick list of what NOT to do while you’re on workers’ comp. These will help you stay on track, protect your benefits, and (most importantly) give you the best shot at a smooth recovery.
1. Don’t Skip Doctor Appointments
This one’s big. Your medical appointments are basically the backbone of your whole claim. They’re proof that your injury is real and serious enough to need care.
Missing them can make it look like you’re fine or not taking your recovery seriously.
And honestly? It’s also about your health. These doctors are tracking your healing. If you miss appointments, they can’t help you get better the right way.
It might delay your recovery or even cause complications down the road.
So set reminders, ask someone to drive you if needed, just don’t blow them off.
Also Read: How To Deal With Workers Comp Doctors
2. Don’t Lie Or Exaggerate Your Injury
Seems obvious, right? Still, it’s worth saying.
Stretching the truth about your injury or symptoms can come back to bite you – hard.
Insurance companies and employers look closely at these cases. If they think you’re not being honest, they might send private investigators to follow you or dig into your personal life.
That sounds dramatic, but it happens. If they catch you doing something your injury should stop you from doing, it could seriously damage your case.
Just stick to the truth. It’s easier and safer in the long run.
3. Don’t Go Back To Work Too Soon
We get it. You miss the routine. Maybe you need the income. Or maybe your boss is asking when you’ll be back. But if your body isn’t ready, going back too soon can lead to re-injury.
And trust me, that’s the last thing you want.
It could also mess up your benefits. If you go back before you’re cleared, you might lose some or all of your workers’ comp payments.
Let your doctor guide the timeline. Your job will still be there. Focus on healing first.
Also Read: Can Workers’ Comp Force You To See Their Doctor?
4. Don’t Ignore Work Restrictions
When your doctor gives you limits like no lifting over 10 pounds or no standing for more than an hour, it’s not just friendly advice. It’s part of your recovery plan.
Going against those restrictions can slow your healing.
Plus, it gives insurance companies a reason to question your claim.
If you’re told not to do something, stick with that. Don’t try to “tough it out.” There’s no prize for pushing through pain when it risks your health.
5. Don’t Post On Social Media
Social media is tricky when you’re on workers’ comp.
One innocent photo or comment can be taken the wrong way. You post a picture from your cousin’s birthday party and suddenly someone is questioning why you were smiling if you’re “too injured to work.”
Even posts that have nothing to do with your injury can raise eyebrows.
It’s not fair, but it happens.
The safest bet is to go quiet online for a while. Or at least think twice before you hit “post.” Privacy settings help, but they’re not foolproof.
6. Don’t Talk Directly To The Insurance Adjuster Without Caution
Insurance adjusters are not your besties. Their job is to save money for the insurance company. So when they call “just to chat,” be careful.
Anything you say can be used to deny or reduce your claim.
If you do talk to them, keep it short and factual. Better yet, if you’ve got a lawyer, have them handle the conversations.
That way you won’t accidentally say something that gets twisted around.
Also Read: Can You Sue Workers’ Comp For Emotional Distress?
7. Don’t Refuse Reasonable Job Offers
Sometimes your employer might offer “light duty” or a modified role that fits your current abilities. As long as it lines up with your doctor’s restrictions, turning it down can hurt your case.
Why? Because refusing a suitable job makes it look like you’re not interested in working. And that can stop or reduce your benefits.
If the offer is something you truly can’t do, talk to your doctor and document everything.
But if it’s reasonable, give it a shot. Here’s a quick tip:
- If a job offer feels off, run it by your doctor first.
- If your doctor says it’s okay, try it.
- If it doesn’t work out, you’ll have proof you gave it a real effort.
8. Don’t Ignore Legal Deadlines
Workers’ comp has all kinds of deadlines – reporting the injury, filing claims, submitting documents. Miss one, and your whole case could be in trouble.
These timelines vary by state, and some are shorter than you’d think.
It’s really easy to miss something if you’re focused on healing and not paperwork.
So get organized early. Make a checklist. Or better yet, get legal help to track things for you.
Also Read: Who Is Eligible for Workers’ Compensation in California?
9. Don’t Settle Too Quickly
After a while, the insurance company might offer you a lump-sum settlement.
And it might look tempting!
But here’s the thing: once you settle, you’re pretty much done. No more help with medical bills, lost wages, or anything else related to the injury.
Take your time. Understand what you’re giving up. Settling too soon can leave you stuck with ongoing medical costs that the settlement doesn’t fully cover. If you’re unsure, have someone with experience look over the offer.
You don’t want to rush into something that hurts you long-term.
10. Don’t Go It Alone If Things Get Complicated
Some claims are simple and smooth. Others turn into a headache real fast.
If you’re getting the runaround from the insurance company, denied benefits, or pressured into decisions, don’t try to handle it all by yourself.
There’s no shame in asking for help. Workers’ comp attorneys know the system inside and out. They can deal with the stress and paperwork, and make sure you’re being treated fairly.
Plus, most offer free consultations, so there’s really nothing to lose by talking to one.
Here are a few signs you might want to get a lawyer involved:
- Your benefits are denied or delayed
- You’re being asked to do work outside your restrictions
- The insurance company is acting shady or aggressive
Bottom Line
The system isn’t always straightforward, but avoiding common worker’s comp mistakes can make a huge difference.
So always keep things honest, follow your doctor’s orders, and don’t give the insurance company any reason to doubt your injury.
If something feels off or you’re getting pushback, it’s totally okay to ask for help. You don’t have to figure it all out alone – especially when your health and income are on the line.
