Grand Junction Workers’ Compensation Attorney

What Is Workers’ Compensation In Colorado?

Colorado workers’ compensation is a type of no-fault insurance that provides benefits if an employee is injured while on the job. Workers’ comp also covers certain physical and mental health issues that arise as a result of employment, such as cancer, loss of hearing from loud noise exposure, and PTSD. 

All employers operating in the state are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance with at least one employee, regardless of whether they are part-time or full-time. Workers’ comp insurance covers all medical expenses, a percentage of lost wages, and permanent disability, even if you were partially or entirely at fault. It also provides wrongful death benefits for surviving family members. 

How Do I File A Workers’ Comp Claim In Grand Junction?

Filing a workers’ comp claim in Grand Junction requires following these steps:

• Seek emergency medical care: If you are seriously injured, attend to your immediate medical needs.
• Notify your employer: Within 10 days of the accident, you must report the injury to your employer in writing. 
• Obtain medical treatment: Your employer may provide you with a list of approved providers to treat your injury. Schedule your appointment as soon as possible.
• File your workers’ comp claim: Your employer should file your claim with their insurance company and with the state if you will miss more than three days from work. However, you are required to also file your own claim with the state by filling out form WC 15. 

The insurance company has up to 20 days to respond after being notified of your injury. Their response will be to either pay your claim or a notice that they are contesting your claim. If your claim is denied, you must file an appeal. 

How Long Do I Have To File A Claim In Colorado?

You have two years from the work-related injury date to complete and submit form WC 15 with the state. However, you must report the injury, in writing, to your employer within 10 days of the accident. Your employer is also required to report the injury with their insurance company within 10 business days after you notify them. 

What Benefits Can I Get From A Work Injury Claim?

Your work injury claim benefits will depend on the extent and severity of your injuries. Workers’ comp insurance provides the following benefits:

• Medical expenses: All medical costs associated with your injury are fully covered, including physical therapy, medical devices, and prescriptions.
• TPD (temporary partial disability): If you are able to work some, but are not earning your normal wages, you can claim the difference as lost wages. 
• TTD (temporary total disability): If you are unable to work at all, you will receive two-thirds of your average weekly pay for lost income. 
• PPD (permanent partial disability): You can receive lost wage payments for permanent partial loss of function. 
• PTD (permanent total disability): If you are unable to return to work, you can continue to receive two-thirds of your average weekly wages for the rest of your life. 
• Disfigurement: You may be entitled to payment for permanent or serious disfigurement. 
• Death benefits: Surviving family members are entitled to payments for lost wages paid at the same rate as TTD  and funeral costs. 

What Should I Do Immediately After A Workplace Injury In Grand Junction?

The two most crucial things to do immediately after a workplace injury are to notify your employer and seek medical treatment, even if the injury seems minor. Your next step should be to schedule a free consultation with a Grand Junction workers’ compensation lawyer to find out your legal rights and options. 

What Are Common Workplace Injuries In Grand Junction, Colorado?

• Fractured and broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Neck and back injuries
• Sprains and strains
• Cuts and bruising
• Repetitive stress injuries
• Joint injuries
• Burns
• Injuries from vehicle accidents
• Hazardous environment or chemical injuries

How Can A Grand Junction Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help Me?

A Grand Junction workers’ compensation lawyer can help you in several ways, including:

• Providing a free consultation to explain your legal rights and options.
• Evaluating the types of compensation you may be entitled to claim beyond workers’ comp.
• Gathering necessary evidence to support your claim.
• Assisting with filing your claim.
• Helping file appeals.
• Helping obtain compensation when your employer is uninsured.
• Dealing directly with the insurance company on your behalf.
• Ensuring you receive maximum compensation and benefits.

What If My Claim Is Denied Or Disputed?

While most claims might seem straightforward, it does not mean insurance companies will not dispute or deny claims. If your claim is denied or disputed, you have the right to file an appeal. The appeal process can be complex, but with help from an experienced workers’ comp attorney, the issues can be resolved much easier than attempting to handle the appeal on your own. 

Why Choose Bachus & Schanker For Workers’ Comp Cases?

Some of the reasons why you should choose Bachus & Schanker for your workers’ comp case include:

• Almost three decades of experience.
• Free consultation.
• Free legal advice.
• Honest assessments.
• No upfront fees or out-of-pocket costs to you.
• Extensive knowledge of Colorado workers’ comp laws.
• Client-centric approach to help you obtain maximum compensation.
• Access to 32 lawyers and more than 50 legal support staff.
• Dedicated lawyer and legal team.
• Access to our Victims’ Advocate team for catastrophic injuries and wrongful death.
• Multiple office locations in Colorado.
• Access to legal resources and support to even the playing field when dealing with disputes and denied claims.

The work-related injury claim process has specific requirements. You’ll want to ensure you meet filing deadlines and other requirements. Regardless of the extent of your workplace injury, our Grand Junction workers’ compensation attorneys can answer your questions about workers’ compensation and provide free legal advice. Contact us now to request your free consultation. 

Legal Support Across Colorado and Nationwide

Serving Clients Nationwide

Related Workers Compensation Resources