Permanent Restrictions and Missouri Workers Compensation

Returning to work with restrictions can be a confusing time. From worrying about your job to understanding the restrictions, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed.

Permanent restrictions are limitations that your doctor has placed on your activities after assessing your injuries. For example, you may be restricted from lifting more than 10lbs or from walking for more than 30 minutes at a time. These restrictions are meant to protect you from further injury and will be based on the specific injuries you’ve sustained. It is important to follow the doctor’s orders and not try to push yourself beyond your limits. Pushing yourself too hard can lead to further injury, which can set you back even further.

Discussing Work Restrictions With Your Employer

You’ll want to be armed with as much information as possible before talking to your employer. This means talking to your doctor once more and having them explain to you what exactly your restrictions are. This way, you can explain the situation and the restrictions clearly. It’s also a good idea to have a note from your doctor detailing the restrictions. This will provide concrete evidence of your limitations.

Once you’ve talked to your doctor, it’s time to have that conversation with your employer. Again, be as clear and concise as possible. Explain the situation and present the note from your doctor. If your boss has any questions, answer them honestly. And if something is unclear to them, they can always request more information.

I’ve Explained My Permanent Restrictions to My Employer: Now What?

After explaining your permanent restrictions to your employer, things can go one of two ways.

• Your employer may be accommodating and make the necessary changes to allow you to stay on the job. For example, they may give you light-duty work to complete.
• Or your employer may not be able to make the accommodations you need. In this case, they may offer you a different position within the company that fits your restrictions.

If neither of these options is possible, then your employer may let you go. While it’s not an ideal situation, being let go from your job because of permanent restrictions may entitle you to certain benefits, like unemployment or workers’ compensation.

If you’re having trouble finding a new job because of your restrictions, you may be able to get help from the state’s Vocational Rehabilitation program. This program can provide you with training and other services to help you find a job that fits within your limitations.

St. Louis Workers Compensation Attorneys

Returning to work with restrictions can be a confusing time. From worrying about your job to understanding the restrictions themselves, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. At the Law Office of James. M. Hoffman, we understand all this and are here to make the workers’ compensation process easier. If you’ve been injured on the job, give us a call to discuss your case for free.