Workers Compensation in Denver, CO

You aren’t alone if you ask “How does workers comp work?” Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides wage and medical benefits to people who have become ill or injured while at work. The extent of workers’ comp coverage an employer is required to carry is governed by Colorado state law. Thus, in trying to figure out how workers comp works, it helps to understand the laws on the books in the state where the business operates. If the injury or illness a worker sustains is eligible for compensation, the insurance carrier should help ease the financial burden the illness or injury created on the worker. Learn some of the basic principles of Denver, CO workers’ compensation insurance, and how the process works.

Workers Compensation Statistics In Denver, Colorado?

The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment reports that the administration, retail, transportation, and construction industries have the most work-related injuries. Sprains and strains are the most common injuries in Denver, caused primarily by twisting, lifting, or repetitive motion. A significant number of work injuries are also caused by falls or contact with objects or equipment.  More than 50% of work-related injury claims result in at least 10 days of missed work, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health.

How Does Workers Comp Work In Denver, Colorado?

Unfortunately, going through the process of applying for workers’ compensation begins with getting sick or injured on the job. The circumstances surrounding the incident that led to your problems are especially crucial. For example, the injury had to occur during your regular work duties. While an event that happens during your lunch break wouldn’t apply, getting into a car accident while running an errand for your boss would qualify for a claim. 

All employers in Denver, Colorado are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. The insurance covers all reasonable and necessary medical expenses. As long as they are recommended and provided by an approved physician. In addition, if your injury causes you to miss at least three days of work, lost wages can be compensated. The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment provides that lost wages are paid at a rate of ⅔ of the average weekly wage. However, Colorado caps this weekly payment at $1022. If the injury is fatal, death benefits are available, including weekly payments and funeral expenses.

For example, say your supervisor asked you to drop something off on your lunch break. While running this errand you then get in a car accident on your way to the destination. Any resulting injury is eligible for workers’ compensation. However, if you are on your lunch break, performing no such task when you get in an accident, it does not qualify for a claim.

The steps you take immediately following a workplace incident in Denver, CO are critical for the purposes of filing a claim for compensation. Follow the following steps to preserve your rights and learn how workers comp works.

Get Medical Attention

After you get injured or feel ill, the first step is to see a doctor. Don’t delay seeking help from a Denver, CO healthcare professional. This could not only jeopardize your health, but you run the risk of missing time-sensitive deadlines. Some are crucial in the workers’ compensation process. Having a proper medical report detailing the damage and how it occurs is the first step in the process. Your employer cannot file a claim with their insurance carrier without this information.

When dealing with a job-related illness, the symptoms and diagnosis may not happen right away. You may find yourself attending regular checkups and testing for weeks or months. All before a doctor finally associates your illness with your job. Your doctor may make the determination that the illness is the result of your work conditions. Or is aggravated by them. Once they do, see your human resources representative to file a workers’ compensation claim.

File a First Report of Injury

The first report of an on-the-job injury or illness will provide the workers’ compensation insurance carrier with the details of the events leading up to the injury. In this report, you will provide your physical injuries, the medical treatment you received, and the facilities that provided it. It’s always a good idea to bring a copy of the doctor’s report to submit with the report of injury.

If you suffer an injury on the job in Denver, you must inform your employer, in writing, within four days. Your employer has to report the injury to their insurance company. If the employer fails to file this report within 10 days, you have two years to file a claim directly with the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation.

Timeline and Other Information

Temporary disability benefits for lost wages will be paid until you are able to return to work for your full wages. The amount will adjust if you are able to work, but in a restricted or limited capacity. In addition, permanent disability benefits are available if your condition has stabilized, but you are still not able to fully return to work. Colorado determines the amount and duration of these benefits by applying a complex formula. It takes into consideration the type and location of the injury, as well as its severity.

Your employer should furnish you with information about the claims process. The adjuster or insurance carrier representative may want to speak to you at some point. Either about the incident or to any possible witnesses to the event. In the meantime, the workers’ comp insurer may begin paying medical benefits while the investigation into your claim continues.

Why You Should Hire a Denver, Colorado Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

While workers’ compensation claims may be straightforward for some cases in Denver, Colorado, in others, it may be more difficult. Your employer may as if you suffer an injury on the clock or your own time. It’s also common for a company to question the full extent of your injury. Hiring a Denver workers’ comp lawyer ensures that you have an advocate to fight for your rights as a victim.

Work With an Experienced Local Lawyer In Denver, Colorado

If you are hurt or contract an illness as a result of your job in Denver, CO you need to find the right people to help. Since the workers’ compensation claims process can have pitfalls, you should consider getting a local attorney who knows how to avoid them. 

Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!