Sometimes a simple accident in the workplace can lead to life-changing injuries. When this happens, it’s sometimes necessary for the injured employee to change jobs or even industries. Long-term injuries can greatly impact one’s ability to continue working in their field, and this career change can come with many challenges.
One of the resources that helps support injured employees is workers’ compensation insurance, which is there to provide benefits to injured workers. One of the benefits included in workers’ comp insurance is called vocational rehabilitation. This is a program that assists people in finding a new job and learning the necessary skills.
The Workers’ Compensation Claims Process
Workers’ compensation insurance is required for most employers in the United States. It allows employees to be compensated if they are too injured to work, and it protects employers from personal injury lawsuits. When a worker becomes injured or ill on the job, they are granted medical coverage, part of their lost wages, and other support as needed such as vocational rehab.
To be eligible for these benefits, you need to make sure that your employer has workers’ compensation and you need to be a part or full-time employee, not a contractor. All injuries or illnesses contracted during work hours are covered, such as a broken leg from falling off a ladder or mesothelioma from asbestos exposure.
Workers’ compensation claims can be made through your employer. As soon as an accident occurs, alert your boss right away. After seeking medical attention, your employer will provide you with a form to fill out. Provide as many details as you can about the incident, and your employer will submit the information to their insurance provider. Once your claim is approved, you can start collecting benefits.
In addition to medical expenses, workers’ compensation provides injured workers with wage replacements. The amount provided is normally two-thirds of your pretax gross wage, according to workers’ compensation attorneys in San Bernardino.
What is Vocational Rehabilitation?
Unfortunately, some injuries or illnesses are so bad that an employee can no longer return to their job, even after recovery. This is where vocational rehabilitation comes into play. This benefit, which is included under workers’ compensation, provides individuals with job training so they can pivot their careers.
Some of the services provided by vocational rehab may include career advice, help with job searching, interview training, independent living skills, training for certain jobs, and access to assistive technology. Rehabilitation counselors are in charge of helping individuals navigate these services. They have a knowledge of how the system works and can inform you of the laws and resources that affect people with disabilities. You can find information about your state’s services here.
Finding a New Career Path
It can certainly be daunting to embark on a new career journey, but it can also be exciting. To assess whether or not you need vocational rehab services, you and your employer will need to consider how your work injury will affect your ability to perform your duties. If you cannot perform these duties, it’s important that you don’t force it. You don’t want to reinjure yourself by pushing too hard past your limits.
Everyone’s vocational rehab path will look different. Some people may not be ready to jump back into a full-time job, no matter the industry. After assessing their skills, a vocational counselor may recommend a volunteer position where the injured person can continue to practice and test different skills before committing to a new job. They may also recommend attending education or training courses that will help with the career transition.
This process can be incredibly challenging and can present more emotional and psychological obstacles than you may expect. Beyond the physical challenges of learning new skills or relearning old ones, many people feel a significant impact when changing jobs. Feelings of anxiety, depression, financial stress, and a loss of sense of self are not uncommon. Speaking with a mental health professional is a great way to help you navigate these emotions.
Legal Considerations
Injured employees are privy to certain legal rights. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) prohibits discrimination based on a disability. This means your employer is required to provide you with reasonable accommodations so that you continue working. The word ‘reasonable’ is key here, because any accommodations that would put too much strain on your employer may not be approved. This means vocational rehab may end up being your best option.
Workers’ compensation laws differ by state. In some states, you will still be eligible for workers’ comp benefits even if you change careers. It is also illegal for an employer to retaliate against you for filing a workers’ compensation claim. Make sure you know your state’s laws so that you can protect your rights.
Moving Forward
Workers’ compensation and vocational rehab are services that are intended for injured workers, so make sure to take advantage of them if you have an accident at work. It can be easy to feel defeated, but there are plenty of resources available to help you on your new career journey. Remember that your injury does not define you, and neither does your career. Embrace the opportunities provided to you and make the best of it.
