Taking a trip while receiving workers’ compensation benefits in Connecticut isn’t prohibited, but it could impact your claim if not handled properly.

Vacation and Workers’ Compensation Benefits: What’s Permitted in Connecticut

Workers’ compensation in Connecticut is designed to support injured employees while they recover and are unable to work. This includes wage replacement and coverage for medical treatment. But what happens if you’re collecting benefits and want to take a vacation? Is it allowed? Can it put your claim at risk?

In Connecticut, taking a vacation while receiving workers’ compensation benefits is not automatically a violation. However, how you go about it—and what you do during the trip—can influence how your claim is viewed by your employer, insurer, and potentially the Workers’ Compensation Commission.

What Connecticut Workers’ Comp Law Says About Travel

No Rule Prohibits Travel, But There Are Strings Attached

There is no law in Connecticut that explicitly bars injured workers from going on vacation while receiving benefits. However, benefits are awarded under the premise that the injury limits your ability to work and that you’re actively seeking or receiving medical treatment.

If your actions on vacation contradict your reported injury—or suggest you’re not following your doctor’s advice—it can raise red flags.

For example:

• If you're claiming a back injury but post photos jet skiing, that could lead to surveillance and a reevaluation of your benefits.
• Missing scheduled doctor’s appointments because you’re out of town could be seen as noncompliance.

Medical Restrictions Still Apply

Even while on vacation, injured workers must follow medical guidance. If your physician has advised rest, physical therapy, or restricted activity, those limitations remain in place regardless of your location.

How a Vacation Could Affect Your Workers’ Comp Claim in CT

Surveillance and Insurance Investigations

Connecticut insurance companies often hire private investigators to monitor claimants, especially if fraud is suspected. Traveling, particularly out of state, may prompt additional scrutiny.

Surveillance may include:

• Monitoring your social media for pictures or location check-ins
• Physically following you or recording your activity in public
• Interviewing neighbors or co-workers

Even an innocent moment—like carrying a suitcase or hiking a short trail—can be interpreted negatively if it conflicts with your medical reports.

Interruptions in Medical Treatment

One of the key responsibilities of a workers’ comp recipient is to attend all required medical appointments. Skipping or rescheduling due to travel can delay your recovery and give insurers a reason to question your commitment to treatment.

If your vacation plans interfere with:

• Physical therapy sessions
• Follow-up doctor visits
• Independent medical exams (IMEs)

You risk delayed benefits or, in some cases, benefit suspension.

Steps to Take Before Going on Vacation While on Workers’ Comp

1. Get Approval from Your Doctor

Before making travel plans, consult your treating physician. If your doctor agrees that travel won’t interfere with your recovery, request documentation confirming this. Having that support in writing can protect you if questions arise later.

2. Inform Your Attorney

If you’re represented by a workers’ comp lawyer, let them know about your travel plans. They can help assess the potential impact on your case and communicate with the insurance company if needed.

3. Avoid Activities That Contradict Your Injury

Vacation doesn’t mean you can ignore medical limitations. Avoid activities that:

• Could worsen your injury
• Appear inconsistent with your reported symptoms
• Might be caught on video or shared online

Remember, perception matters. Even if you feel better, your activities can be misinterpreted.

4. Minimize Social Media Sharing

While it may be tempting to post updates from your trip, doing so can damage your claim. Insurers may use even casual posts—like a beach photo or hiking trail selfie—to argue that your injuries aren’t as serious as claimed.

Limit your online presence during this period and ask friends not to tag you in posts.

Legal Risks of Appearing Dishonest or Noncompliant

Claim Denials or Benefit Reductions

Any suggestion that you’re exaggerating symptoms or violating medical orders can result in:

• Suspension of wage replacement benefits
• Denial of future medical coverage
• Termination of your workers’ comp claim

Even if you didn’t intentionally mislead, the insurer may argue that your behavior demonstrates you’re capable of returning to work sooner than claimed.

Allegations of Workers’ Comp Fraud

Connecticut takes fraud seriously. If the insurer believes you’re misrepresenting your injury or recovery status, they may refer your case to the Workers’ Compensation Fraud Unit. If convicted, penalties may include fines, repayment of benefits, and even jail time.

Tips for Traveling Safely While on Workers’ Comp

• Stick to your treatment plan: Arrange to continue physical therapy or take prescribed medications while traveling.
• Stay in communication: Respond to messages from your attorney or claims adjuster during your trip.
• Keep records: Maintain documentation of medical visits before and after the trip to show your continued compliance.
• Limit physical exertion: Follow all activity restrictions—even if you're feeling better.

When in Doubt, Postpone Travel Plans

Workers’ comp claims are often under a microscope. If your vacation raises questions about the legitimacy of your injury, it may not be worth the risk—especially if your benefits are your only income during recovery. If you’re early in your claim or undergoing active treatment, consider postponing travel until your recovery has stabilized or you’ve returned to work.

Conclusion

While taking a vacation during a Connecticut workers’ compensation claim isn’t against the law, how you manage it matters. Any action that contradicts your injury claim, disrupts medical treatment, or signals to the insurer that you’re exaggerating symptoms could jeopardize your benefits. Before traveling, talk to your doctor, notify your attorney, and carefully evaluate whether time away will support—or hinder—your recovery. Protecting your claim means treating both your injury and your responsibilities with equal care.

Need Legal Help? Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is One Phone Call Away

Navigating Connecticut Workers' Compensation claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.

Contact us now for a free legal review.