Experienced Denver Workers’ Comp Lawyers
If you were injured on the job in Denver, CO, you may be entitled to benefits through the workers’ compensation system. At Colorado Car Accident Lawyers, our experienced Denver workers’ compensation lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Whether you suffered a workplace accident or developed a condition due to repetitive stress, a skilled Denver workers’ compensation attorney can guide you through the claims process. Don’t let a denied claim or employer dispute stop you. Contact our team today for a free consultation and get the support you need.
How Workers’ Compensation Works in Colorado
Workers’ compensation is a system that helps people who get hurt or sick because of their job. It pays for medical care, covers part of your lost wages if you can’t work, and can even provide other benefits if you’re permanently hurt. Most full-time and part-time workers in Colorado are covered by workers’ compensation.
You don’t have to prove your employer was at fault to receive workers’ comp benefits. In most cases, employees can sue an employer for a work injury.
Workers’ compensation can seem confusing, but you don’t have to go through it alone. A Denver workers’ comp lawyer can help you file your claim.
Our Denver Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Help Injured Workers
Colorado workers’ compensation laws can be confusing, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. A Denver workers’ comp attorney can guide you through the claims process and help you get the benefits you deserve.
Our Denver workers’ comp lawyers will help you gather the right paperwork and file your claim correctly. A lawyer can explain what benefits you might qualify for, like medical care or lost wages, and make sure you don’t miss important deadlines. We understand how workers’ comp benefits are calculated and will fight for the fair compensation you deserve.
Sometimes, workers face challenges like unfair denials or delays in their benefits. Our Denver workers’ compensation lawyers know how to deal with these situations. We can fight for you, negotiate on your behalf, and help you appeal if your claim is rejected.
How to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Colorado
If you are injured on the job in Colorado, you have the right to file for workers’ compensation benefits. Following the correct steps is important to obtain the benefits you deserve. Here’s how the process works.
Get Medical Attention
If your injury is serious, go to the nearest emergency room right away. You do not need your employer’s approval in an emergency. If it’s not an emergency, your employer should give you a list of approved doctors. Choose one from the list and get treated as soon as possible.
Report Your Injury to Your Employer
Notify your employer about your injury as soon as possible. You must report the injury to your employer in writing within 4 days. Within 10 days of being notified, your employer should report the injury to the insurance company.
If your employer doesn’t notify the insurance company, you can report the injury to the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation.
File Your Colorado Workers’ Comp Claim
Complete the Worker’s Claim for Compensation (WC-15) form and send it to the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation. You have up to 2 years from the date of your injury to file this form, but it’s best to file as soon as possible.
Receive Benefits or Request a Hearing
The insurance company (carrier) has 20 days to decide if your claim is accepted or denied. If your claim is approved, you’ll receive benefits for medical care and lost wages. If it’s denied, you can request a hearing to appeal the decision.
Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Colorado
Workers’ compensation in Colorado provides several types of benefits to employees who are injured or become ill due to their jobs. Our Denver workers’ compensation lawyers can help you claim all the benefits you’re entitled to.
Medical Benefits
Colorado workers’ compensation should cover necessary medical treatment for your work injury, including doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. Medical benefits can last as long as you need care for your injury, even a lifetime if necessary
Lost Wage and Disability Benefits
There are four types of disability benefits.
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): You can receive TTD benefits if you can’t work at all for a temporary period. These benefits are typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage.
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): You may be eligible for TPD benefits if you can work in a limited capacity and earn less than before. These usually cover two-thirds of the difference between your current income and your pre-injury earnings.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): You may qualify for PPD benefits if you have a permanent impairment but can still work in some capacity. The benefit amount depends on the severity of the impairment and the impact on your ability to work.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD): You can receive permanent total disability if you can’t work in any job due to your workplace injury. PTD benefits are paid at the same rate as TTD.
Vocational Rehabilitation
If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job, workers’ comp may provide job training or help you find new employment.
Death Benefits
If a worker dies due to a job-related injury or illness, their dependents may receive death benefits, including lost income and burial expenses.
How Much Are Colorado Workers’ Comp Benefits?
Colorado workers’ compensation benefits are calculated based on your average weekly wage. The compensation you receive depends on the severity of the injury and the impact on your ability to work.
Temporary Total Disability (TTD)
If you can’t do your job while recovering from a work accident, Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits pay two-thirds of your average weekly wage.
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD)
If you can work while recovering but earn less than before your injury, you may qualify for temporary partial disability benefits. These benefits are calculated as two-thirds of the difference between your pre-injury wages and your current earnings.
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)
Permanent Partial Disability benefits are paid to workers who have a permanent physical impairment but can still work. Permanent Partial Disability is calculated using an impairment rating from your doctor.
Permanent Total Disability (PTD)
Permanent Total Disability benefits cover two-thirds of your average weekly wage if you are permanently disabled and can’t work in any job.
Common Work Injuries in Denver, Colorado
Workplace injuries can happen in all types of jobs, from construction and manufacturing to office work and retail. Some injuries are caused by accidents, while others happen slowly over time from repeated activities.
Here are some of the most common workplace injuries our Denver workers’ comp lawyers see.
- Slips, trips, and falls: These accidents can be caused by wet floors or uneven surfaces.
- Back injuries: Lifting heavy objects or moving awkwardly can cause back pain or serious back injuries.
- Repetitive strain injuries: Doing the same task over and over, like typing or assembly line work, can lead to injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Cuts and bruises: These can happen from tools, machinery, or even office equipment.
- Burns: Workers in kitchens, factories, or labs can suffer from thermal, chemical, or electrical burns.
- Exposure to harmful substances: Breathing in dust, fumes, or chemicals can lead to serious health problems.
- Head injuries: These can happen if something falls from above or if you slip and hit your head.
If you’ve experienced any of these injuries at work, it’s important to report them right away and seek medical care. Getting help early can make a big difference in your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do if I’m Injured at Work in Denver, CO?
If you’re injured at work in Denver, the first thing you should do is tell your employer about the injury right away. You usually have four days to report it, but sooner is always better. Then, you should get medical care from a doctor approved by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. Keep track of your medical treatment and any missed workdays. If you’re unsure about your next steps, our Denver workers’ compensation lawyers can make the process easier.
Why Should I Hire a Denver Workers’ Comp Lawyer?
Hiring a Denver workers’ comp lawyer can make a big difference in your case. Workers’ compensation laws are tricky, and insurance companies don’t always make it easy for injured workers to get the benefits they deserve. A lawyer knows how to protect your rights, gather the right documents, and fight for you if your claim is denied or delayed. They’ll take care of the legal stuff so you can focus on getting better and moving forward.
Is There a Time Limit to File for Workers’ Comp in Colorado?
Yes, there is a time limit to file for workers’ comp in Colorado. You have two years from the date of your injury to file a workers’ compensation claim. However, if you wait too long to report your injury to your employer (usually more than four days), you might lose some of your benefits. It’s important to act quickly so you don’t miss out. If you’re unsure about the deadlines or how to file, our Denver workers’ compensation lawyers can help you every step of the way.
How Long Do Workers’ Compensation Benefits Last in Colorado?
The length of your workers’ compensation benefits in Colorado depends on how serious your injury is and how long you’re unable to work. Medical care is covered as long as you need treatment for your work injury. Temporary Disability Benefits usually last until you can return to work or reach maximum medical improvement (MMI), which means your condition is not expected to improve further. Permanent Total Disability Benefits can continue for life.
What If My Colorado Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied?
If your workers’ comp claim is denied, don’t panic. You have the right to appeal the decision. You’ll usually start by requesting a hearing with the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation. At this hearing, you can present evidence, like medical records and witness statements, to show why your claim should be approved. Having a Denver workers’ compensation attorney on your side can make all the difference.
Contact our Denver Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Today
If you’ve been hurt at work and need help with your workers’ compensation claim, don’t wait to reach out to us. At Colorado Car Accident Lawyers, we know how overwhelming it can be to deal with paperwork and insurance companies while you’re trying to recover. We’re here to make the process easier for you and to fight for the benefits you deserve.
Our Denver workers’ compensation lawyers have the experience and knowledge to stand up for injured workers. We’ll handle the legal work and keep you informed every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation by calling 864-313-2487 or filling out our online form.