Many individuals receiving workers' compensation benefits wonder how returning to their jobs, or picking up new work, will impact them. Simply put, they fear their benefits will be taken away. And indeed, this is often — but not always — the case.
Workers' compensation laws are as complex and varied as the American workplace itself. Everyone's situation is unique. This is why the team at Cummings Law Firm has dedicated itself to helping injured workers navigate the legal process and achieve positive outcomes. Serving clients throughout Connecticut, we're here to answer your questions and address your concerns.
Can I Moonlight?
With the development of the 'gig economy,' it has become much easier for individuals to pick up part-time jobs and similar forms of paid work. Others may have long-held second jobs that provided them with additional income. Unfortunately, continuing on with such concurrent employment can jeopardize your ability to receive workers' compensation benefits if you do not disclose it. Doing so may be considered an act of fraud. In Connecticut, employers and insurance companies have sued individuals who took on jobs while receiving workers' compensation benefits.
If you have two jobs, in certain circumstances, an employer must pay for lost wages for both jobs when injured at one of them. For instance, if you are injured at your part time job and are totally disabled from work, the part time employer must also pay for your wages lost from your full time job. The rules, however, are not always clear cut. It is always best to consult with an experienced lawyer to determine whether moonlighting or concurrent employment will affect your benefits.
What If I Take A Lesser Role When I Return To My Company?
An injury may prevent individuals from resuming their old jobs. After returning to work, one's new role may not pay as well as one's former position, or one may be physically unable to work as many hours. This, understandably, can cause distress.
Yet such scenarios are typically covered by Connecticut's workers' compensation laws. Namely, a provision known as 'wage loss differential' enables employees to recoup any difference in wages, so their income will be essentially the same as before.
Contact Us If You Have Questions
To learn more, or to speak with an attorney, reach out to our firm. You can call us at 203-754-7779 or contact us online. Initial consultations are free, enabling us to assess your situation before you are obliged to retain us.