When you leave your home in the morning, you probably do not expect to get hurt. Unfortunately, accidents can happen, and you might be injured on the job. If you are hurt and unable to return to work, how are you going to make ends meet? That is where workers’ compensation can be helpful, but there are some people who have a difficult time qualifying for workers’ compensation. At Ridder Law, it would be our pleasure to help you with this process. Learn more about our workers’ compensation services below, and call our experienced personal injury lawyers today at (720) 812-1047 to handle your case.
Common Reasons Why People Get Hurt on the Job in Colorado
The exact nature of the accident will vary depending on the industry in which you work; however, some of the most common reasons why people get hurt at work include:
- You might slip and fall on a wet floor in your workplace.
- If you perform manual labor, you may suffer a back, shoulder, or knee injury.
- You might suffer a shock injury if you work with live wires.
- You may suffer a burn injury if you work with hot metals or liquids.
- You might take a tumble down the stairs.
- You may get hit by a falling object that falls off the shelf.
Of course, these are just a few of the many reasons why people get hurt on the job. At Ridder Law, it would be our pleasure to review your case to see if you qualify for workers’ compensation.
How a Workers’ Compensation Case Works in Colorado
The exact administration of workers’ compensation can vary from place to place. Colorado has specific workers’ compensation requirements; however, there are several common requirements that you need to meet to qualify for this type of compensation. They include:
- You must have been an employee of the company at the time the accident took place.
- Your employer has to carry insurance for workers’ compensation.
- You must have suffered an injury or illness during the course of your normal job duties.
- You need to report and file your claim in a timely manner.
There can be some confusion surrounding these requirements, and it would be our workers’ compensation attorneys’ pleasure to help you.
Colorado Reporting Deadline For Work Injuries
If you’re injured on the job in Colorado, you have just 10 days to report your injury to your employer, and this notice has to be in writing.
Within 10 working days of your injury, you should let your employer know about the injury. This must be done in writing. If you were injured more than 10 days ago, you should still notify your employer in writing as soon as possible.
Letting your employer know in writing creates an official record and protects your right to possible workers’ compensation benefits. Missing this deadline or only mentioning the injury casually could risk your ability to get compensation for medical care, lost wages, and more
Exclusions – When Does Someone Not Qualify For Workers’ Comp in Colorado?
Sometimes workers’ compensation doesn’t apply, even if you’re hurt at work. The reasons usually come down to how the injury happened or details about your job. Understanding these exclusions is important for all employees.
Injury Is Not Work-Related
If you were hurt while doing something completely outside the scope of your job, or off the employer’s premises during a break when you weren’t “on the clock,” workers’ comp might not cover it.
Intoxication/Drug Use
If tests show you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of your accident, your claim could be denied.
Self-Inflicted Harm
Deliberately hurting yourself, regardless of why, is not covered Fighting or Violating Company Policy
Injuries from horseplay, physical fights, or breaking clear safety rules may make you ineligible for workers’ comp. Employers look for security footage, witness reports, and HR files to show violations.
Independent Contractors
Contract workers, freelancers, or anyone not on the regular payroll might not fall under state workers’ comp laws, even when the injury happens at work. However, sometimes employers try to label people as independent contractors when they’re actually employees. A lawyer can help you with this determination.
If you’re unsure if you qualify, the best thing you can do is speak with a legal professional as soon as possible after your injury.
Evidence Used to Build a Successful Colorado Workers’ Compensation Case
If you want your workers’ compensation case to succeed, collecting strong evidence is essential. To do that, you have to know what types of evidence you need.
Written Accident Report
The copy of your official accident report gives a paper trail about the incident, identifying when, where, and exactly how the incident happened.
Medical Documentation
Visits to the doctor produce records tying your injuries directly to work. Medical files make note of exams, diagnoses, scans, and all follow-ups. Consistent documentation shows your effort to improve and can show that your injury was related to your work.
Witness Statements
Accounts from witnesses can be helpful in proving your claim as well. If someone saw your injury occur and saw that you were working at the time, it is going to be hard for your employer or their insurance company to argue that you weren’t on the job when you got injured.
Time Sheets and Pay Records
Work logs, patterns for clocking in or out, and documented changes in hours can trace how lost work, job changes, or permanent limitations have affected your income long-term.
Good lawyers use every piece of evidence available, strengthening your case so insurers and employers see you as credible and ensure you get what you’re entitled to.
Can You Qualify for Additional Compensation in Colorado?
Even though workers’ compensation is helpful, you may qualify for additional compensation depending on the circumstances surrounding your injury. For example, if somebody else may have been responsible for your injury or illness, they could be responsible for your expenses. Our workers’ compensation attorneys in Colorado will take a look at all aspects of your case to maximize your financial compensation.
Contact Our Colorado Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Today
We understand that it can be stressful if you have been injured at work, and we are here to help you. It is important for you to see a doctor as soon as possible after you have gotten injured. You also need to let your employer know if you have been injured at work. Then, contact us for a case review at (720) 812-1047. Let Ridder Law review your case and maximize your chances of qualifying for workers’ compensation.