How Much Time Should I Take off If I Get Hurt in a Car Crash?

No one expects to be in a car accident, nor is anyone prepared for one. After an accident, you may be wondering how much time you’ll need to take off work. The time off required really depends on the severity of your injuries, though. In an attempt to move past the accident, most people return to work too soon after an accident, which may only increase your injuries.

A common misconception about taking time off after an accident is that it will affect your ability to file a claim. While you’re still able to file a compensation claim, the other party may see a quick return to work as a sign that your injuries are less severe. Before making any decisions, discuss your case with a South Florida car accident attorney.

How Much Time Can I Take Off?

There is no set number of days you can take off of work due to a car crash. Every accident is different, and your injuries may need more medical attention or require a longer recovery. There are a few things to consider when pondering this question.

How Serious Are Your Injuries?

If you were hospitalized or your injuries caused temporary or permanent damage, you’ll likely have to take a significant amount of time off. Be sure to notify your employer immediately. Most people take at least one month to recover, but it’s all subjective. There’s no set number of days to recover, and your health should come first.

Workplace Policy

Once you’re able, you should speak with your manager or human resources partner to determine what options are available for taking time off. Company rules differ from employer to employer, so what you read about one company’s policy probably doesn’t apply to your company.

How Much Time Should I Take Off?

During an accident, your body releases more adrenaline. It increases your heart rate, elevates your blood pressure, and boosts energy. However, it’s also known to decrease pain, and it takes about three days for adrenaline levels to fully return to normal. So, you may not feel pain until a few days after your accident. With this in mind, you should take at least three days off.

It’s always important to see a doctor after an accident. Not all symptoms appear right away, and a doctor can diagnose any internal injuries. A doctor can also recommend how much time you should take off, depending on the severity of your injury.

Can I Still Receive Compensation If I Take Sick Time?

You generally can obtain compensation for lost wages and future loss of income if your company does not offer paid sick leave.

However, if they do offer paid sick leave to help you avoid financial distress, you should take it. You may be able to receive compensation for paid sick leave because you should not be penalized for having to use leave time for an accident someone else caused.

How to Take Time off Work Following a Car Accident

When you take time off, you’ll want to make sure you follow company rules. Here are a few tips to make the process easier for yourself:

• Obtain a doctor’s note
• Talk to your employer as soon as possible
• Stay in contact with your boss throughout your time off
• Ask about work-from-home opportunities
• Ask to avoid physical responsibilities while you recover
• Talk to human resources to obtain clear instructions and guidelines

The more you work and communicate with your employer, the more likely it is that they will work with you.

Get in Touch with a Skilled South Florida Car Accident Attorney

If you’ve been involved in an accident because of someone else’s negligence, you may want to contact a car accident attorney. Consider reaching out to Attorney Robert Baker of Baker Legal Team.

With more than 30 years of experience, Robert Baker has obtained hundreds of thousands of dollars for clients who have been involved in accidents. He’ll fight for you to receive the maximum amount of compensation needed to cover medical bills and lost wages.

Call (561) 320-0000 or complete a contact form to schedule a free consultation.