There is no question that an injury on the job presents quite a problem for you. Certainly you can file a Connecticut workers’ compensation claim, which you are entitled to do under state law, but you may be injured beyond the point where you’ll be able to return fully to your previous role.
The state of Connecticut protects employees from being fired or demoted due to filing a workers’ compensation claim, so your employer cannot tell you you can’t return, but your medical provider may tell you just that and then where do you go from there?
There is good news and bad news in this scenario. The bad news is pretty evident, you can’t go back to the job you’ve been working at due to this injury. The good news however may just brighten your day a bit.
If you are unable to go back to your old job due to being a permanent, partial disability, the workers’ compensation commissioner may award you a wage loss benefit. The amount is up to the discretion of the commissioner and will be commensurate with the permanent, partial disability rate. This will help get you back on your feet and into a job you can perform, even with your injury.
The other thing you may be entitled to under the law is Vocational Retraining through the state of Connecticut. If you are eligible you can take special training or college courses for up to two years.
If you’ve been injured on the job and you need some help navigating your claim, our board certified workers’ compensation attorneys can help. Contact our office immediately.
