A car crash can cause injuries that can take weeks or months to recover from. Broken bones, back injuries, and head trauma may require surgery and other medical treatments that prevent you from returning to work right away.
So when should you return to work after an accident? The next day? In a few weeks? A month? A year? There is no cut and dry answer to this question. Every person’s situation is different. Each body reacts differently to trauma. Plus, the injuries can vary dramatically. For example, a spinal cord injury will take longer to heal than a whiplash injury.
But will going back to work too soon affect your personal injury claim? Do you have to stay at home if you truly feel better? Here are some things to consider before returning to work.
Wait 72 Hours
You may have totaled your car and feel totally fine. But in most cases, that’s the adrenaline talking. You may not experience any discomfort until the adrenaline wears off. That’s when your body will become the most vulnerable.
Instead of going to work following an accident, head home. Even if you don’t feel bad now, you might later; this is often the case with whiplash, the symptoms of which may not arise for 24 hours. It’s better to start the recovery process sooner rather than later. By going to work after a crash, you could delay your recovery by six months or longer. So go home and relax for the next few days, if possible. Your body will thank you.
Talk to Your Doctor
There is no magic date on which you should return to work. Your doctor is the only person who can tell you when your recovery has progressed to the point where you can go back to work. If you have an upcoming surgery or still struggle with daily activities, then you may want to delay your return for a while. But if you feel better and are capable of doing your regular work activities, then discuss this with your doctor and have him or her clear you for work.
It’s good to take the time you need to recover from your injuries. At the same time, though, returning to work quickly may speed up your recovery. A sedentary lifestyle is not good for the body, so listen to your doctor and follow his or her orders.
Returning to work will not affect your claim as long as you are following doctor’s orders. If your doctor has not cleared you for work, but you return anyway, or if you are cleared for work and you do not return, then you may encounter some issues.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today
A car accident can cause pain and mobility issues for weeks or even months, but you shouldn’t let it dictate your life. Once you start to feel better, discuss the pros and cons of returning to work with your doctor.
If you have concerns about how returning to work will affect your case, contact a personal injury lawyer from Harville Law Office, PLLC. We can assess your claim and help you understand what’s right for your health and your financial situation. Contact our office today.
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