Weld County Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
It is an unfortunate circumstance when employees sustain injuries while trying to accomplish their duties at their place of work. When such a situation occurs, employees should receive benefits to help cover medical expenses and lost time at work. Sadly, injured employees are often refused benefits, leaving them vulnerable to financial distress.
Dealing with a workplace injury or illness is challenging enough. Luckily, you may be able to recover compensation with the help of an experienced injury attorney. A Weld County workers’ compensation lawyer could review the circumstances of your injury, negotiate settlement offers on your behalf, and provide you with guidance throughout the claims process.
Different Types of Workers’ Comp Benefits
As part of employment, employees receive workers’ compensation benefits. In return, employees relinquish their right to sue an employer. If they are injured or fall ill due to employment, they may only pursue recovery by filing a workers’ compensation claim. This process protects the employer from having to pay double the amount of damages.
There are four types of benefits that a workers’ compensation beneficiary could seek depending on their injuries:
- Health care expenses
- Death benefits
- Temporary disability
- Permanent disability
Health Care Expenses and Death Benefits
Certain workers’ comp packages could cover medical expenses, such as treatment and medication. However, in order for a victim to be compensated, their treatment must be considered reasonable and necessary. In the event of a fatal work injury, compensation could be awarded to the family of the deceased.
Temporary & Permanent Benefits
Temporary disability benefits may be received while a worker recovers from their injury or illness that renders them temporarily unable to work at all or at full capacity. Benefits for permanent disability may be available when a worker is not expected to get significantly better or fully recover from their injury or illness.
While many states pay higher rates for temporary disability than permanent disability, in Colorado, workers receive two-thirds of their weekly wage for both temporary and permanent disability benefits.
What Are the Requirements for Employers Providing Workers’ Compensation?
According to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, employers in Colorado must have workers’ compensation that covers work-related illnesses or injuries if they have one or more employees unless they fall under one of the exceptions. Employers must also select a medical provider for the employee’s care.
Employers may also seek to obtain workers’ compensation coverage from commercial insurance companies, or through self-funded individuals or groups. In addition, employers are required to file a report with the insurance company within 10 days of an employee’s notice of a work-related injury.
What Are the Filing Deadlines for Workers’ Comp Claims?
In the event that an employer fails to file a workers’ compensation report, employees have the right to file a claim directly to the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation. According to Colo. Rev. Stat. §8-43-103, employees have two years to file a claim, or three years if they have a reasonable excuse. However, before doing so, it is recommended to get in touch with a Weld County workers’ compensation lawyer.
Contact a Weld County Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today
You sacrifice your time and safety to support yourself, your family, and your community, working hard each day. When the unexpected and misfortunate circumstance of injury or illness arises from your occupation, it could be a heavy burden to overcome.
A Weld County workers’ compensation lawyer could analyze the circumstances of your case and help guide you through the process. You do not have to lift the burden of seeking your recovery on your own, start exploring your options and call now to schedule a consultation.
