Denver Workers’ Compensation Attorney

What Is Workers’ Compensation?

Colorado’s workers’ compensation is a program designed to provide certain medical and other benefits to employees who get injured on the job. 

Unlike a personal injury case, workers’ compensation claims do not depend on fault. You only need to comply with the requirements of the program, and you will qualify for benefits.

These benefits can include:

• Compensation for your necessary medical care up to the point of maximum medical improvement
• Temporary disability if you cannot work or can only work with limitations after the accident
• Permanent disability benefits if your injuries keep you from working completely or only allow you to work with limitations
• Wage benefits for income you lose because of your injuries

Your average weekly wages will determine what wage benefit you qualify to receive. Moreover, receiving temporary or permanent disability benefits is contingent on being evaluated by a qualified medical provider and following their recommendations.

Although the workers’ compensation program sounds simple, various roadblocks can delay or derail its effectiveness. That is where we come in. Contact Bachus & Schanker, and we can help smooth your road to recovery.

What To Do To Get Denver Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Once a workplace accident occurs, you must follow the steps set forth in Colorado’s workers’ compensation laws. Otherwise, you risk having your claim denied. Follow these steps to give your claim the best possible chance of success:

• First, if you need emergency care, obtain it right away
• Tell your employer about your injury as soon as possible but no later than four days after the accident
• Make sure your report to your employer is in writing
• Obtain care from a medical provider from one on a list given to you by your employer
• Complete form WC-15 Workers’ Compensation Claim

You must complete the WC-15 form within two years of your injury. Waiting any longer will result in your claim being denied.

If you have questions, your Denver workers’ compensation attorney has answers. Schedule a call with Bachus & Schanker today.

How To Respond To A Workplace Accident In Denver

Your ability to receive workers’ compensation does not depend on showing that your employer or anyone else was at fault. Nevertheless, certain things should happen after an accident. Make sure that you:

Make A Written Report To Your Employer

You might tell your employer about your accident while leaving to get treatment. While this is understandable, it is also insufficient. You must make sure you send a letter, email, or other written communication telling your employer the date and location of your accident.

Preserve What Evidence You Can

One way your workers’ comp claim can be diminished is if the insurer believes you violated safety rules. Prevent this by taking notes or photographs of the accident scene. If there are coworkers who saw the accident, record their names and contact information.

Receive Medical Care

Another way your claim can be denied or reduced is if you do not follow your doctor’s care instructions. Make sure you understand what your doctor expects you to do and that you follow through. This means:

• Avoid participating in activities your doctor tells you to refrain from doing
• Keep medical appointments, and if you must miss one, reschedule it as soon as possible
• Submit to reasonable procedures and treatments unless you have a valid objection
• Accurately describe your symptoms during each visit
• Take any medications as prescribed

Additionally, it is crucial that you abide by any work restrictions your doctor gives you. If you are allowed to return to work, communicate any limitations you have to your employer. You should not try to hide work restrictions from your employer, nor should you allow your employer to force you to work if you are not cleared to do so.

Why Do You Need A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?

When you retain Bachus & Schanker to help you with your Denver workers’ compensation claim, we will be there to help you with all aspects of your claim. This includes making a report to your employer if you have not yet done so and time remains. 

We can also help you investigate your workplace accident, preventing the insurer from unfairly denying you coverage. If you are denied benefits, our team of experienced workers’ compensation attorneys will help you preserve your appeal rights and assist in overturning an unfair denial.

Bachus & Schanker can even answer questions you may have about your ongoing benefits. If you are declared permanently disabled, our team will work to ensure you receive the appropriate compensation your injuries demand.

Reach Out To Bachus & Schanker Today

If you have been hurt on the job, Bachus & Schanker is the firm to call for help getting the benefits you need.

Sources: 

Employer-Reported Workplace Injuries and Illnesses – 2021-2022.

File a Workers’ Compensation Claim.

2021 Colorado Workers’ Compensation Act.

Related Workers Compensation Resources