Fort Collins: Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Colorado workers often have a heightened risk of injury on the job. With several Colorado industries involving oil and gas, mining, and other physically intensive occupations, countless workers are injured yearly. When this happens, our Fort Collins workers’ compensation attorneys are ready to fight for your rights.
Working with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer will ensure you get the full benefits you’re entitled to under the law. To learn how we can help, contact our team today.
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What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation in Colorado provides financial relief for medical expenses and lost wages for employees injured on the job. According to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, the law requires all Colorado businesses with employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance to protect workers if a work-related injury or illness occurs.
What Injuries Are Covered By Workman’s Compensation?
Several injuries can occur on the job. Depending on the industry and job position, you may have a higher risk of injury. However, some common job injuries that workers’ compensation benefits may cover include:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Lacerations
- Neck and back injuries
- Burns
- Bone fractures
- Sprains and strains
- Cumulative trauma
Many of these injuries result from car accidents, trucking accidents, construction accidents, equipment failure, and oil and gas industry accidents. For Colorado workers, it’s essential to understand that workers’ compensation benefits are available regardless of fault.
What Should I Do If I Suffer A Work Injury In Fort Collins, Co?
If you’re injured at work in Fort Collins, CO, here are some steps to take to help you get the medical care and financial support you need:
- Report the injury to a supervisor – It’s crucial to file an accident report as soon as possible. A record of the injury will be essential to claiming workers’ compensation benefits.
- Seek medical assistance – If you need immediate medical care, call 911 or see a medical professional right away to assess and treat your injuries. The workers’ compensation insurer will also require you to see a doctor of their choice to confirm the injury.
- Consult with a workers’ compensation attorney – Some insurance companies may try to minimize or deny your claim unfairly. Working with a lawyer means you have strong legal representation on your side to fight for your rights.
What Workers’ Comp Benefits Are Available To Employees In Colorado?
In general, workers’ compensation benefits in Colorado include compensation for:
- Medical care for a workplace injury
- Lost wages (temporary disability)
- Permanent disability
- Mileage reimbursement for medical treatment
If you cannot return to work, temporary total disability (TTD) will pay two-thirds of your average weekly wage. If you have a permanent disability and have reached your maximum medical improvement (MMI), a doctor will determine your impairment or loss of function percentage to calculate your benefit amount.
What Evidence Is Needed For My Workers’ Comp Claim?
To claim workers’ compensation benefits, you or your lawyer must show evidence of your injuries. You must also prove that the injury occurred at work or while performing your duties.
To claim workers’ compensation benefits, you or your lawyer must show evidence of your injuries. You must also prove that the injury occurred at work or while performing your duties.
- Videos or images of your injuries
- Your personal written statement of what happened
- Witness statements from colleagues or supervisors
- Medical records of your injuries and treatment
- Records of prior injuries of other employees in the workplace
- Expert testimony
Gathering evidence and building your case means your employer and the insurance company are less likely to deny your claim. Contact a workers’ compensation attorney to help you take the necessary steps to claim your benefits.
If I’m On Worker’s’ Comp, Can I Still Work?
If you return to work, Colorado workers’ compensation benefits include temporary partial disability (TPD), compensating for reduced hours, or limited earnings due to your injury. However, TPD benefits end when you:
- Return to your pre-injury wage
- Receive a release to return to regular work by an authorized doctor
- Have reached maximum medical improvement
- Fail to attend a rescheduled medical appointment
What Happens If My Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied In Fort Collins, Co?
If your workers’ compensation claim is unfairly denied in Larimer County, you can appeal the decision and request a hearing with the Office of Administrative Courts. Depending on the reason for the denial, you may be able to change the outcome. Working with lawyers who focus on workers’ compensation cases can improve your chances of the administrative judge deciding in your favor.
What Is A Workers’ Compensation Case Worth?
Every workers’ compensation claim is different. How much you can expect for your workplace injury depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injury
- Prognosis and treatment time
- If you’re able to return to work in a limited capacity
- If you’ve reached your maximum medical improvement
- Your pre-injury wage
- If you have a permanent impairment
To learn more about workers’ compensation benefits and to see what your claim may be worth, contact the law offices of Bachus & Schanker for a free case evaluation.
Can I Get Workers’ Comp Benefits If A Loved One Dies While Working?
Certain surviving family members can receive compensation for lost wages on behalf of their deceased loved one. However, they must meet specific requirements to qualify, including legal eligibility for dependent benefits. Consult with a personal injury attorney to understand your legal options if you have lost a loved one while at work.
How Can A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer In Fort Collins Help Me?
Under Colorado law, employers are required to have workers’ compensation insurance. Unfortunately, insurance companies can make it challenging to receive the full benefits you deserve. A Fort Collins workers’ compensation attorney will help you take legal action to ensure you get maximum compensation.
If you need the best workers’ compensation lawyer Colorado has to offer, Bachus & Schanker serves Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, Englewood, and Denver, Colorado. Contact our team to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you get justice.
What Is The Process For Filing A Workers’ Comp Claim In Fort Collins, Co?
Filing a claim for workers’ compensation benefits includes these steps:
- Fill out a claims benefits form and send it to the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation.
- Wait about 20 days for a response from the insurance company. They will either approve or deny your claim.
- If approved, evaluate the offered benefits and make sure the compensation accurately represents your losses.
- If denied, you can appeal the decision and request a hearing.
Filing a workers’ compensation claim can be complex. Consider working with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to avoid costly mistakes.
SOURCES:
Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE). What is Workers’ Compensation?
Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE). Workers’ Compensation Appeal Process.
Legal Aid at Work. Workers’ Compensation: Temporary Disability Benefits.
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Bachus & Schanker, Personal Injury Lawyers | Fort Collins Office
2630 Illinois Drive
Fort Collins, CO 80525
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Written and Legally Reviewed By: Kyle Bachus
4.6 ★★★★★ 1,461 Google Reviews
Kyle is a member of the Colorado Bar associations and has served on the Board of Directors of the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association for more than twenty years in total. Over the years, Kyle has achieved justice for many clients. He has served on numerous committees and repeatedly won recognition from his peers at both the state and national level. He is proud of the role he has played in the passage of state and national legislation to protect consumers and is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer.
