Q: Can employer require me to pay upfront for transportation to and from work?
I broke my tibia at work in November - had to have surgery and have been off work for almost 8 weeks. My doctor has released me for seated work only, but I am unable to drive for another few weeks. My employer has requested that I return to work on January 2nd but has advised that I will have to pay out of pocket for transportation to and from work each day and then wait for reimbursement every two weeks. This is a significant expense for me, approx $300 per week, and I simply don’t have the funds to pay these costs upfront right now, especially as I am not receiving my full pay. I asked the claims adjuster if there was any other options and was told no, and that I’m expected to return to work regardless. Do I have the legal right to say no or could that possibly put my job in jeopardy?
A: We typically have transportation provided for clients at the insurance company's expense - there are car services known to most if not all carriers. I do not have clients pay and wait for reimbursement, and it is the insurance company's responsibility, not your employer. There is no guarantee your job is secure regardless of how the travel question is resolved. You can contact me at jfriedman@cruzfirm.com or 602-687-9211 if you have other questions.
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