Some workplace injuries may result in temporary total disability, meaning you cannot perform any work while you are recovering. However, your doctor might say you can return to light-duty work. If so, there are some things you need to know about light-duty work and workers’ comp in Georgia. Our Savannah workers’ compensation attorney explains what you need to know about light-duty work in this blog.
What Is Meant by Light Duty Work in a Georgia Workers’ Compensation Case?
Light duty work is a temporary job your employer assigns you after a workplace accident because you cannot perform your regular job duties. The type of light work assigned depends on the work restrictions ordered by your physician. Light duty work may include reduced hours, special accommodations to allow you to perform the duties or less physically demanding tasks.
Generally, as your condition improves, your physician may remove some work restrictions. If so, your employer may change the light-duty work assignment to accommodate your ability to perform additional tasks.
Light duty work allows employees to work in a limited capacity without risking further injury. An employer must offer light-duty work that complies with the restrictions and limitations prescribed by the employee’s doctor.
What Happens if the Doctor Says I Can Return to Work on Light Duty?
Your employer must complete a WC-240 form to be approved by your physician. The form informs you that your employer has light-duty work available that adheres to your restrictions and limitations. The form also has a description of the work and job duties.
If you return to light duty, your temporary total disability (TTD) benefits end. However, you may be entitled to temporary partial disability benefits.
Your employer cannot ask you to perform any duties outside of the job description on the WC-240. You can refuse to perform work outside of the job description on the WC-240 and apply to reinstate your TTD benefits. Also, if your employer lied about having light duty work to stop your disability benefits, you can request your TTD benefits be reinstated.
Temporary Partial Disability Benefits and Light Duty Work
If you earn less on light duty than before your work injury, you are entitled to temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits. The amount you receive for TPD benefits equals 2/3 of the difference between your pre-injury wages and your light-duty wages up to the state maximum amount for TPD.
You can receive TPD benefits for a maximum of 350 weeks from the injury date. After 350 weeks, you may need to apply for permanent disability benefits if you cannot return to your pre-injury job.
What Happens if I Refuse Light Duty Work After a Workplace Accident?
Georgia workers’ comp laws require that you try to perform light-duty work. If you refuse light-duty work, your workers’ compensation ends immediately.
You have 14 days to try to perform the light-duty tasks. If your injuries will not allow you to perform the light-duty work described on the WC-240, talk with your doctor immediately. You may be able to get your TTD benefits reinstated.
Contact Our Office for a Free Consultation With Our Savannah Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Are you having trouble with your employer denying you working accommodations after a workplace accident? If so, we can help. Call Parsons Law Group to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced Savannah workers’ compensation attorney.