If you've been seriously injured while working offshore or in any environment that falls under admiralty law, you shouldn't return to work until you're medically cleared to do so. This isn't a time for stoicism, as any respectable injury lawyer in New Orleans may tell you.
On the other hand, if your injury was minor, meaning you suffered only a few scrapes and bruises, your shipping lawyer may advise that you return to work as long as you're positive that you've fully recovered. Consider a sprained ankle, for example. Though it may seem like a minor injury, it can take a significant amount of time for the ankle to heal properly. If you return to work too soon, you risk aggravating the injury.
Why It's a Bad Idea to Return to Work Too Soon
Many workers who have families to provide for often insist on returning to work before their injuries have had time to properly heal. After all, they have to keep their families fed and sheltered, and we understand this. However, this is a big mistake.
It's well known within the field of admiralty law, also known as maritime law, that injured workers who receive treatment from doctors chosen by the company probably will be cleared to return to work prematurely. Back to the sprained ankle example, by returning to work early you risk suffering a complete ligament tear, which could lead to surgery and physical therapy.
When your injury is worsened or aggravated because you returned to work too soon, as your shipping lawyer can explain, the company most likely blames you.
To protect your legal rights, you should contact an injury lawyer in New Orleans after you suffer a serious or potentially serious maritime accident. Although we are based in New Orleans, we represent clients throughout the country.
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