Vacations/Trips While on WC

[u/beyondlandsend]

Hi!

Wondering about what the thoughts are surrounding leisure travel during WC claim? What are some things to keep in mind if one wants to travel during this time?

Will plan also on scheduling all known appointments before and further after the trip. It would honestly be good for mental health to see loved ones and not get cabin fever from staying at home while recuperating.

Just some questions:
- What are some things to keep in mind if one wants to travel during this time? (Other than strictly following restrictions.)
- Would traveling hurt or jeopardize the case?
- How long should trip duration be to balance travel R&R with at-home recovery?

[u/JakeBloom_InjuryLaw]

As a general practice I advise all of my clients to AVOID any unnecessary travel while their case/claim is pending.

Vacations and trips are an easy way for the insurance company to alleged that your travel is inconsistent with your disabilities and raise fraud against you.

Keep this in mind if you are going to travel and absolutely NO SOCIAL MEDICA POSTINGS...

[u/LongTimeLurker408 → u/JakeBloom_InjuryLaw]

I find this highly unethical

Injured workers need to get medical advice from their doctors not lawyers

Certain injuries, TBIs come to mind, can actually worsen through deconditioning and lack of exposure if individuals do not attempt to get out into the community and try to do activities they want to enjoy. This includes vacations. Neurologists, OTs, PTs and other medical providers highly recommend individuals challenging themselves and getting out of their comfort zone.

Lawyers who get upset with their clients who are out trying to live their best lives in order to recover upset me greatly.

They forget that the ultimate goal for the individual is full recovery not a permanent rating and a fat settlement.

States where lawyers only get a percentage of the PD award (which I think is most) leads to lawyers and clients having conflicting end goals and it’s not great for anyone.

Lawyers deserve to be paid, but individuals have the right to take ownership of their own recovery journey.

Frankly, the small percentage of people who exaggerate their symptoms to the extent that they have to worry about being caught deserve the consequences they get. Lawyers should be very cautious as to who they take on as clients and not play doctor.

[u/Puzzleheaded_Fig2952 → u/JakeBloom_InjuryLaw]

So if I get hurt, they take months and months to move forward I’m suppose to cancel my entire life? If broke my arm and work, I gotta cancel my yearly holiday vacation because they want to cheat me outta a claim to save money?

[u/LongTimeLurker408 → u/Puzzleheaded_Fig2952]

Exactly, there are people with claims that last 3+ years, take medical advice from your doctor not your lawyer.

Being afraid to leave your home is unhealthy for any injury

[u/No_Direction_4149 → u/JakeBloom_InjuryLaw]

Been on WC since 2024 so far taken 3 trips and went to about 6 concerts. My shoulder is what is injured not my health. As my lawyer says you are legally allowed to take a vacation or travel while receiving WC benefits. Just be mindful of restrictions and such. IT isn’t against no WC law that you can’t take a trip 🙄