If you're recovering from a work-related injury and receiving workers’ compensation, you may be wondering: Can I go on vacation?

The short answer is yes—you’re allowed to go on vacation while collecting workers’ comp benefits. But (and it’s a big but) there are a few very important things to keep in mind before you hit the beach, board a plane, or post a “vacay vibes” selfie on Instagram.

Let’s break it down.

Yes, You Can Travel—But Be Smart About It

There’s no law in Florida that says injured workers can’t travel. Going on vacation doesn’t automatically disqualify you from benefits. However, insurance companies are always looking for reasons to reduce or deny claims. A vacation can be the perfect opportunity for them to do just that.

If you’ve told your doctor (and the insurance company) that you’re unable to lift heavy objects or walk long distances—but you’re caught carrying a suitcase or hiking while on vacation—your claim could be in serious trouble.

Even innocent activities can be twisted to look suspicious. That’s why you need to be strategic and cautious.

Surveillance Is a Real Thing

It might sound dramatic, but insurance companies do hire private investigators to watch injured workers. These investigators might follow you, take photos or videos, and check out your social media activity—even if your accounts are set to private.

Think about this: if you’re claiming you can’t bend or lift because of a back injury, but you post a photo of yourself lifting your kid in the pool, the insurer might argue you’re exaggerating or faking your injury. Even worse, they could try to terminate your benefits altogether.

Our advice? Think twice before posting anything. When in doubt, don’t post.

Don’t Miss Your Medical Appointments

This one’s big. While you’re on workers’ comp, you’re expected to keep up with your treatment plan—and that includes going to all scheduled medical appointments. If you skip an appointment because you’re out of town, it can seriously affect your claim.

Missed appointments can signal to the insurance company that you're not taking your recovery seriously, or worse, that you’re no longer injured. Always check your treatment schedule before booking a trip, and reschedule any appointments in advance.

Get Your Doctor’s OK

Before planning any getaway, talk to your doctor. Let them know where you’re going, what you’ll be doing, and make sure your activities won’t interfere with your recovery. If your doctor gives you approval—and ideally documents it—that’s a good layer of protection if questions come up later.

Just because you're out of town doesn’t mean you're off the hook when it comes to following medical advice. If you’ve been told not to lift, bend, or sit for long periods, stick to those restrictions—even on vacation.

What the Law Says in Florida

Here’s a quick look at what Florida law says about workers’ comp and physical activity:

• Permanent Total Disability (PTD): According to Florida Statute § 440.15(1), benefits are paid unless you’re capable of doing even sedentary work. So, if you’re seen doing things that suggest you could handle a desk job, your benefits could be at risk.

• Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): Florida Statute § 440.15(4) covers those still healing. If you’re on TPD and you’re spotted doing activities on vacation that contradict what you've told your doctor or the insurance company, that’s a red flag.

In short: if you’re not supposed to be doing certain things, don’t do them—especially when people might be watching.

What About Getting Paid While on Vacation?

You can still receive your workers' comp benefits while you’re away. Just remember: if you’re using paid vacation time (PTO) from your employer, it could affect how your benefits are calculated. Each situation is different, so it’s worth talking this through with your attorney.

Our Best Advice? Talk to a Lawyer First.

We get it—life doesn’t stop just because you got hurt at work. You might need a mental reset. A chance to relax. And that’s okay! But before you book your trip or post a picture poolside, talk to an experienced workers’ comp attorney.

At Rosen & Ohr, P.A., we’ve been helping injured workers across South Florida for more than 45 years. We understand how to protect your benefits while still giving you space to live your life. We’ll guide you through what’s safe, what’s risky, and how to avoid any mistakes that could cost you.

Final Thoughts

Yes, you can take a vacation while on workers’ comp—but only if you’re careful.

✅ Stay within your doctor’s restrictions
✅ Don’t miss any appointments
✅ Be cautious on social media
✅ And always check in with a lawyer if you’re unsure

​​​​​​​A little planning goes a long way in making sure your getaway doesn’t turn into a legal headache. If you have any questions or concerns about your workers’ compensation case, reach out to us for a consultation. We’re here to help.