COLORADO WORKERS COMPENSATION LAWYER
Get The Strong Arm® and Get The Compensation You Deserve
PRACTICE AREAS
Workplace accidents and illnesses can turn your life upside down in an instant. If you’ve suffered an injury or developed an illness due to your job in Colorado, you’re likely grappling with pain, medical bills, and lost wages. The stress of trying to recover while worrying about your financial future takes a heavy toll.
A Colorado workers’ compensation lawyer at Franklin D. Azar & Associates, P.C. understands what you’re going through and stands ready to help. We know the workers’ compensation system inside and out and will fight tirelessly to get you the benefits you deserve. Even if your claim has been denied, don’t lose hope. We may be able to appeal the decision and secure the compensation you need to get back on your feet.
Don’t try to handle this difficult situation alone. Contact our firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you in obtaining the workers’ compensation benefits you’re entitled to under Colorado law.
Colorado Workers’ Compensation Guide
- Workplace Injuries and Illnesses That Qualify for Benefits
- Workers’ Comp Benefits You Could Receive
- Why Choose Franklin D. Azar & Associates, P.C. to Handle Your Colorado Workers’ Comp Claim
- What’s the Process of Getting Workers’ Comp in Colorado?
- Dealing with Workers’ Compensation Insurance Companies
- What to Do If Your Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied
- Frequently Asked Questions About Workers’ Comp in Colorado
- Contact Our Colorado Workers’ Comp Attorneys Now for a Free Consultation
Understanding Workers’ Compensation Laws in Colorado
Colorado’s workers’ compensation system provides benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. This no-fault system means you don’t have to prove your employer was negligent to receive benefits. In exchange, you generally can’t sue your employer for a workplace injury.
Key points about Colorado workers’ comp laws:
- Most employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance
- Benefits cover medical expenses and partial wage replacement
- There are strict deadlines for reporting injuries and filing claims
- Pre-existing conditions aggravated by work may be covered
- Mental health conditions caused by work can qualify for benefits
- Benefits are available for temporary and permanent disabilities
- Death benefits may be provided to families of workers killed on the job
The laws governing workers’ compensation in Colorado are complex. A personal injury lawyer in Colorado from Franklin D. Azar & Associates, P.C. can explain how these laws apply to your specific situation and help you navigate the claims process.
Workplace Injuries and Illnesses That Qualify for Benefits
A wide range of injuries and illnesses may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in Colorado, including:
- Sprains, strains, and tears
- Fractures and broken bones
- Back injuries and spinal cord damage
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Burns
- Hearing or vision loss
- Repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome
- Respiratory illnesses from toxic exposure
- Occupational diseases like mesothelioma
- Mental health conditions like PTSD from traumatic work events
To be eligible, the injury or illness must arise out of and occur in the course of your employment. This doesn’t mean it had to happen at your usual workplace, though. Injuries that occur while traveling for work or attending work-related events may also be covered.
Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, like repetitive stress injuries that develop over time. You may still qualify for benefits in these cases. If you’re unsure whether your injury or illness is work-related, consult a workers’ compensation attorney who can review the details of your situation.
Workers’ Comp Benefits You Could Receive
Colorado workers’ compensation provides several types of benefits:
Medical Benefits: All reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your work injury should be covered, including:
- Doctor visits and hospital care
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Medical devices like crutches or wheelchairs
- Mileage reimbursement for medical appointments
Temporary Disability Benefits: If you’re unable to work while recovering, you may receive:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): Two-thirds of your average weekly wage if you can’t work at all
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): A portion of lost wages if you can work reduced hours or duties
Permanent Disability Benefits: For lasting impairments after reaching maximum medical improvement:
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): Compensation based on your impairment rating
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD): Ongoing benefits if you’re permanently unable to earn wages
Other potential benefits include:
- Disfigurement benefits for visible scars or disfigurement
- Vocational rehabilitation to help you return to work
- Death benefits and funeral expenses for fatal workplace accidents
The amount and duration of benefits depend on factors like your pre-injury wages and the severity of your injury. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help ensure you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to under Colorado law.
Why Choose Franklin D. Azar & Associates, P.C. to Handle Your Colorado Workers’ Comp Claim
When you’re dealing with a work-related injury or illness, you need a law firm with a proven track record of success in workers’ compensation cases. Franklin D. Azar & Associates, P.C. has been helping injured workers in Colorado for over 30 years.
Our team of dedicated attorneys understands the nuances of Colorado workers’ compensation law and how to build strong cases for our clients. We’ve recovered millions of dollars in benefits for injured workers across the state.
When you choose our firm, you’ll benefit from:
- Free initial consultations to discuss your case
- Attorneys who focus on workers’ compensation cases
- A thorough investigation of your workplace accident or illness
- Clear communication throughout your case
- Aggressive negotiation with insurance companies
- Skilled representation at hearings and appeals if necessary
- No fees unless we recover benefits for you
We take pride in providing personalized attention to each client. Your attorney will take the time to understand how your injury has affected your life and work tirelessly to get you the compensation you need to move forward.
Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Let Franklin D. Azar & Associates, P.C. put our experience and resources to work for you.
What’s the Process of Getting Workers’ Comp in Colorado?
The workers’ compensation claims process in Colorado involves several steps:
- Report your injury: Notify your employer in writing within 10 working days of the injury. Your employer should provide you with the proper forms.
- Seek medical treatment: Your employer may designate a healthcare provider for your initial treatment. Follow their instructions and attend all appointments.
- File a claim: Your employer should file a First Report of Injury with their insurance carrier and the Division of Workers’ Compensation.
- Insurance company review: The insurer will investigate your claim and decide whether to accept or deny it.
- Receive benefits: If approved, you’ll begin receiving medical treatment and any applicable wage replacement benefits.
- Ongoing treatment: Continue with your prescribed medical care and follow your doctor’s orders.
- Return to work: When medically cleared, you may return to full duty or modified work.
- Claim resolution: Your claim will be closed once you’ve reached maximum medical improvement and any permanent disability has been assessed.
If your claim is denied or you disagree with the benefits offered, you have the right to appeal. Having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney on your side can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
Dealing with Workers’ Compensation Insurance Companies
While workers’ compensation insurance companies are supposed to provide benefits to injured workers, their primary goal is often to minimize payouts. They may use various tactics to reduce or deny your claim, such as:
- Disputing whether your injury is work-related
- Claiming your injury is due to a pre-existing condition
- Pressuring you to return to work before you’re ready
- Offering quick settlements that may not cover all your needs
- Delaying approval of necessary medical treatments
Don’t let these tactics intimidate you or prevent you from getting the benefits you deserve. An attorney from Franklin D. Azar & Associates, P.C. can protect your rights and deal with the insurance company on your behalf. We know how to counter their strategies and fight for fair compensation.
Deadlines for Filing Your Colorado Workers’ Compensation Claim
Time is of the essence in workers’ compensation cases. Missing deadlines can jeopardize your right to benefits. Key deadlines to remember:
- Report your injury to your employer within 10 working days
- File a workers’ compensation claim within 2 years of the injury date
- For occupational diseases, file within 2 years of the onset of disability and within 5 years of your last injurious exposure
Exceptions may apply in certain circumstances, such as if your employer failed to post required notices about workers’ comp rights. If you’re unsure about the deadlines that apply to your case, consult with a workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible.
What to Do If Your Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied
Receiving a denial letter for your workers’ compensation claim can be disheartening, but it’s not the end of the road. You have the right to appeal the decision. Steps in the appeal process may include:
- Request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge
- Present evidence and testimony to support your claim
- If unsuccessful, appeal to the Industrial Claim Appeals Office
- Further appeals to the Colorado Court of Appeals and Supreme Court if necessary
The appeals process requires a thorough understanding of workers’ compensation law and court procedures. Having an experienced attorney to guide you through this process can significantly improve your chances of overturning a denial and securing the benefits you need.
When You Can Bring Additional Claims for Compensation
While workers’ compensation is usually your exclusive remedy against your employer for a work-related injury, there are situations where you may be able to pursue additional compensation:
- Third-party claims: If someone other than your employer or co-worker caused your injury, you might have a personal injury claim against that party. For example, if you were injured by a defective piece of equipment, you could potentially sue the manufacturer.
- Intentional acts: If your employer intentionally caused your injury or acted with extreme negligence or wanton disregard for your safety that resulted in your injury, your attorney may be able to help you sue them directly.
- Retaliatory discharge: It’s illegal for employers to fire or discriminate against employees for filing workers’ comp claims. If this happens, you may have grounds for a wrongful termination lawsuit.
These situations can lead to compensation beyond what workers’ comp provides, including full lost wages and pain and suffering damages. An attorney can help determine if you have grounds for additional claims and guide you through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Workers’ Comp in Colorado
Can I choose my own doctor for treatment?
Initially, you may need to see a provider designated by your employer. After that, you can request a one-time change of physician.
What if my employer doesn't have workers' compensation insurance?
You may still be able to receive benefits through the Colorado Uninsured Employer Fund or pursue legal action against your employer.
Can I be fired for filing a workers' compensation claim?
No, it’s illegal for employers to retaliate against employees for filing workers’ comp claims.
What if my injury was partly my fault?
Colorado’s workers’ comp system is no-fault, meaning you’re generally entitled to benefits regardless of who caused the accident.
How long can I receive workers' compensation benefits?
The duration depends on your injury and recovery. Temporary benefits typically last until you reach maximum medical improvement, while permanent disability benefits may continue long-term.
Can I receive workers' comp and Social Security Disability benefits at the same time?
Yes, but your Social Security benefits may be reduced based on your workers’ comp payments.
Contact Our Colorado Workers’ Comp Attorneys Now for a Free Consultation
If you’ve suffered a work-related injury or illness in Colorado, don’t face the workers’ compensation system alone. The experienced attorneys at Franklin D. Azar & Associates, P.C. are here to help you get the benefits you deserve.
We offer free, confidential consultations to discuss your case and explain your rights. There’s no obligation, and you won’t owe us any fees unless we recover compensation for you. Don’t let insurance companies shortchange you on the benefits you need to recover and move forward with your life.
Take the first step towards securing your future. Contact Franklin D. Azar & Associates, P.C. today at (303) 757-3300 for your free consultation with a dedicated Colorado workers’ compensation lawyer. Let us fight for you while you focus on your recovery.
Frank Azar Car & Truck Accident Lawyers – Denver Office
Address: 4704 N Harlan St Suite 205
Denver, CO 80212
Phone: (303) 562-1442
