This is a question that we hear quite frequently. The short answer is that if you are injured on the job in Florida and are getting workers’ compensation benefits, you are not locked into your current employment. Regardless of your employment status, working, not working, found a different job, or not physically able to perform your prior job, your medical benefits are legally supposed to continue with your workers’ compensation carrier.
From a lost wages standpoint, the reasonable basis behind your decision to quit your job comes into play, and whether the carrier would be responsible for paying for your wages while you are still receiving workers’ compensation medical care.
Voluntarily Quit
If you quit your job, the employer may argue that you are not entitled to benefits because you “voluntarily quit your job.” However, if you can show that you left because of your work injury, the door can be opened up for your lost wage entitlement. Also, quitting your job could possibly complicate your eligibility for unemployment compensation benefits in Florida.
However, regardless of your wage entitlement situation, your ability to continue to receive medical benefits and appropriate treatment for your work injuries does not change.
Quitting your job while receiving workers’ compensation can raise questions about your right to wage benefits, but it doesn’t end your medical coverage. At Smith, Feddeler & Smith, we help injured workers protect their rights, no matter their employment status. If you’re unsure how a job change may affect your workers’ comp claim, reach out to our team for trusted legal guidance.
