WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I’M INJURED AT WORK?
If you are injured at work in the state of Colorado, there are certain steps you need to take to ensure expenses relating to your injury are paid. Work-related injuries are covered by the Colorado Workers’ Compensation Act, which provides protection to employees under the state’s mandatory insurance laws.
Importantly, Colorado is a “no-fault” state, meaning that the employee is covered even when their injury resulted from their own actions, so long as the injury occurred while performing the duties of the job. Even though workers’ compensation provides broad coverage, you still need to be proactive in asserting your claim when you’ve suffered harm.
What to do when you are injured at work:
- Notify your employer in writing within 4 days of the injury
- Report the claim directly to the Division of Workers’ Compensation
- See an Authorized Treating Physician
- Keep records of all medical bills
If you suffer a serious injury at work, it may be difficult to focus on the paperwork required in asserting a claim. Unfortunately, if you fail to notify your employer or report the claim, you risk a loss of benefits that include reimbursement for medical care, weekly wage benefits, and lost wages coverage. You should speak with a workers’ compensation lawyer in Colorado as soon as possible so you do not miss out on the benefits you’ll need if you’re hurt and can’t work.
Employers May Deny Liability
A word of warning—if you are injured at work, some employers may contest your claim by saying you were acting outside the scope of your job when you were injured or that you aren’t covered because you’re an independent contractor. They could also claim that you willfully caused the injury and are barred from coverage. When these defenses are raised, you must contact an experienced Colorado workers’ compensation attorney to protect your rights.
Contact a Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorney
If you’ve been injured at work, you shouldn’t wait for your employer to deny liability before seeking the counsel of an experienced attorney. Not only will a competent attorney fight for your rights, but they will also ensure you’re effectively navigating the red tape of the workers’ compensation process without unnecessary delay.
Attorney Andrew Bubb works tirelessly to ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to when you’ve been hurt on the job. Contact us online, or call (303) 807-6187 to see how Bubb Law Firm, P.C., can help you today.