What if Your Injury Prevents You From Returning to Your Old Position
The Workers' Compensation Board (WCB) provides coverage and benefits to workers who are injured or become ill due to work-related incidents. If you sustain a work-related injury or illness that prevents you from returning to your old position, the following steps typically occur:
Medical assessment: You will need to undergo a medical assessment to determine the extent of your injury or illness and its impact on your ability to work.
Temporary benefits: If your injury or illness temporarily prevents you from returning to work, you may be eligible for temporary disability benefits. These benefits aim to provide financial support during the recovery period.
Vocational assessment: If it becomes evident that you cannot return to your old position due to the nature of your injury or illness, the WCB may conduct a vocational assessment. This assessment evaluates your skills, education, work experience, and other factors to identify potential alternative employment options that align with your abilities despite the injury.
Rehabilitation and training: In some cases, the WCB may provide vocational rehabilitation or retraining programs to help you acquire new skills and transition to a different job or occupation that you can perform with your current limitations.
Permanent disability assessment: If your injury or illness results in a permanent disability that prevents you from returning to any suitable employment, the WCB will determine the degree of permanent disability and provide permanent disability benefits accordingly.
Benefit entitlement: The type and duration of benefits you receive will depend on the severity of your injury, your ability to return to work, and other relevant factors. Benefits may include wage loss benefits, medical expenses coverage, vocational rehabilitation support, and potential long-term disability benefits if the injury leaves you permanently unable to work.
It's important to note that the workers' compensation process can vary slightly depending on the province or territory in Canada where the injury occurred, as each jurisdiction may have its own regulations and guidelines. If you encounter challenges or have questions during the process and need further assistance on how to navigate the claim and need someone to advocate on your behalf, feel free to call us at +1 (416) 736-2981 or fill out the online form.