Important Tips on Returning to Work After an Accident

Returning to Work After a Motor Vehicle Accident

Dr. Aaron Harting, a member of Chambers Medical Group, one of the highest rated auto injury medical facilities in Lexington and Louisville, offers sound advice on returning to work after a motor vehicle accident (MVA).

Most motor vehicle accidents we see are at least a short-term life-altering event that not only affects your physical body but also your ability to work. Getting yourself back to the workplace after an MVA can be challenging, requiring careful planning and consideration. With the right approach, and a little help, you can navigate this process smoothly and successfully.

1. Prioritize Your Recovery: Your health and well-being should always be the top priority. Before even thinking about returning to work, focus on your medical treatment and rehabilitation. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice and attend all necessary appointments. Your recovery plays a crucial role in your ability to resume work effectively.
2. Communicate with Your Employer: Open communication with your employer is important during this time. Notify your employer about the accident and your condition. This will help them understand your situation and help them make arrangements for coverage if necessary. Be prepared to share information about your treatment plan, expected recovery timeline, and any work restrictions provided by your healthcare provider.
3. Understand Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights and protections as an employee returning to work after an MVA. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may apply in certain situations, offering job protection and accommodations.
4. Communicate with Your Healthcare Provider: Healthcare provider’s input is crucial in determining when you are ready to return to work (RTW). They can assess your injuries, recommend any necessary accommodations, and provide guidance on your ability to perform job tasks. I always ask the patient what job tasks they need restrictions for. Precise answers always help the doctors tailor an RTW plan.
5. Plan Your Return Gradually: Returning to work full-time immediately after an MVA may not be advisable. Consider a gradual return-to-work plan, which allows you to gradually increase your hours and responsibilities. I often explain to patients its ok to update restrictions as we go. Sometimes you will not know what jobs you cannot perform until you try to perform them. This can help you ease back into your work routine while still prioritizing your recovery.
6. Request Workplace Accommodations: If your MVA-related injuries require accommodations to perform your job effectively, discuss these with your employer. Under the ADA, employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations that enable you to perform essential job functions. This might include modified tasks, ergonomic adjustments, or flexible work hours.
7. Be Patient with Yourself: Returning to work after an MVA can be physically and emotionally taxing. Being patient with yourself will help. It is normal to experience different feelings such as anxiety, frustration, and fear. Give yourself the time you need to adjust and do not hesitate to seek support.
8. Stay Organized: Keeping track of your medical documentation, work restrictions, and conversations with your employer is essential. Make a folder where you can store all relevant information. This will help you stay organized and ensure you have documentation for discussions with your employer if needed.

At Chambers Medical Group one of our many jobs is helping people return to work after an MVA. This is a significant step in your recovery process. By prioritizing your health, communicating, and understanding your rights, you can navigate this process with confidence. Remember that your well-being comes first, and smoothly getting back to work will contribute to your overall healing.

— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.

.

–

Have you been in a car accident? If you or somebody you know has been in a car accident, be sure that you seek medical attention from a car accident doctor or car accident chiropractor to treat your injuries. Visit Chambers Medical Group  to receive world-class medical treatment for your injuries.

Chambers Medical Group has car accident medical clinics in the following locations:

• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Tampa
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Plant City
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Brandon
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Lakeland
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Sarasota
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Louisville
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Lexington
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Florence