Am I obligated to return to my same job after WCB (Workers Compensation) says it's okay?

Question

I'm on WCB (Workers Compensation) now and should be able to return to work in a few weeks, I do not want to go back to my original job due to safety and health reasons am I obligated to do so or can I just go some place else to work?

Answer 1

You will not receive anymore benefits if you don't.  

Answer 2

The other answer is sound advice, go back to this job for several reasons.  You have been on WCB for some time, it is not an obligation to HAVE to go back to work for this company, but they HAVE been paying their dues and took care of you when you got hurt. I say, give it a try, even if you really really hate to do it! The safety thing, is that how you got hurt? If it is, the company should have fixed the problem while you were out. NOW! IF it wasn't! NOW'S the time to think about quitting that particular job! EASE into it! Start looking for another job, but remember, the new employer will ask you why you left, and for goodness sake, BE HONEST!  You WILL be starting all over again, probation and all that stuff, and as jobs aren't easy to find anymore with all the lay-off's, you will probably starting off at a lower salary! THAT'S why I said EASE INTO IT!  NOW! on the other hand, you decide, you are NOT going back to work for them, you can't find a decent right away. You cannot go on unemployment, cos YOU quit the job you had waiting for you! See my point!? Please think this over,I have been in your situation, so I DO know how you feel.  I did go back, and was the lowest paid employee in the whole of the company, but I stuck to my guns (because of my injury I couldn't do the work as I had been doing, and had to take what they offered me) I worked hard, and six months later, an opportunity arose to better myself, took the test and passed it, and, when I retired, I was getting top pay again, with all the benefits! My pension pays me more now than I was actually making when I retired!!! Life is sweet!

Answer 3

You should probably go back until you find something else.  If you already have something else lined up it wouldn't hurt to give notice.

Good Luck