What should I do if the insurance company pressures me to return to work?
Answer
If you’re feeling pressure from the insurance company or anyone to return to work, you should talk to your lawyer and determine whether it’s reasonable to try returning at that time or whether it’s unreasonable because you’re still not better. The purpose of the workers’ compensation system is to support you while you are unable to work, for as long as that may be. Pressure from adjusters does occur—often when unrepresented workers speak directly with insurance personnel who may make comments to make the injured worker feel guilty or rushed into going back so the insurer can close out the claim.
Pressure to return doesn’t help anyone. The system already has built-in incentives to get you back to work when appropriate, but no one should be pushing you before you’re medically ready. Most people don’t enjoy being out of work and are earning far less than usual, and the emotional toll can be significant. It shouldn’t be made worse by an adjuster urging you to go back prematurely. If this is happening, you may want to consider why you’re talking to the adjuster at all. Communication should go through your lawyer—someone with your interests in mind—not the insurance company. For additional guidance, you can review our Rhode Island workers comp attorney resource or visit the RI workers’ comp benefits to understand your rights in these situations. You may also want to read related issues such as treatment denials or how to handle doctor choice disputes.
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