The blizzard and your workmans comp case
So your driveway and sidewalks are covered with two feet of snow. You need to clear a pathway for the mailman and clear the driveway so you can get your car out of the garage. If you don't you won't be able to go to the store, take your kids to school, etc.
But there is one problem.
You are on workers' compensation for a back injury and have strict orders to not do any lifting or anything else that could put pressure on your back (and this would apply to someone with a leg, hand or arm injury too). You've been feeling a little better of late and if you don't do it no one else will.
I always tell clients to just be honest. Part of being honest is telling your doctor everything you've done and the pain you experience doing it. If you can't lift a bucket at work, you probably can't shovel yourself out of the mess we are in.
The risk is that you hurt yourself and make the injury worse and that could result in your benefits being cut off. If you are dealing with a major injury, don't be surprised if the insurance company is performing surveillance on you right now in hopes of catching you doing something that you shouldn't be able to do.
The moment they get you on tape, even if it's just for a couple of minutes, your case can completely change. You may have been just trying to "tough it out" for a few minutes, but doing so could ultimately screw you over.
So our advice is to listen to your body and think long term. If you need shoveling help and don't have a friend or neighbor to step up for you, go to Craigslist.com and post an ad. You are way better off paying some kid $25 than putting your whole case and health at risk.
We are workers' compensation attorneys that help people with Illinois work injuries anywhere in IL via our statewide network of attorneys. Contact us and we will answer your questions or find the right lawyer for your situation.
