In most states, when a worker who has filed for workmans comp benefits is able to
return to light duty, the employer must provide suitable work and return the worker to the job he or she left, or an equivalent job, provided that such a position is available.
However, going back to work in a light duty capacity may mean that an employee still needs to be paid workers compensation benefits to make up the difference for what they might earned in their regular position were they fully recovered.
Sadly, for this very reason, some employers will claim they have no light duty employment available simply to stop paying workers compensation benefits altogether.
Therefore, for this reason, injured workers should avoid being overzealous in their desire to return to work. Moreover, they should not play down their symptoms when speaking with a doctor who is overseeing their recovery. Because the unfortunate truth is, the worker who sincerely wishes to return to work may discover that their employer does not have their interests at heart.
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