Since most employers in Colorado are required by law to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage for all their full-time and part-time employees, you will likely have access to benefits through this type of coverage in the event you get hurt or sick because of your job. However, workers’ comp claims often differ, and the benefits you may be eligible for through this coverage may not be the same as those that another injured employee might receive.
Understanding workers’ compensation benefits in Denver is crucial when pursuing a claim for an injury that occurred on the job. When you have questions or concerns about the benefits you may be entitled to, a knowledgeable workplace injury lawyer could provide the answers and information you need during a confidential consultation.
The primary benefit of workers’ comp coverage is to reimburse you for the medical treatment you need to reach “maximum medical improvement” after a work-related injury. In addition, workers’ compensation benefits could offer you reimbursement for travel expenses related to medical care—for example, the mileage needed to attend your doctors’ appointments and pick up prescription medications. A dedicated attorney in Denver could help you gather your medical bills to use as evidence when demanding payments.
In Denver, disability benefits under workers’ compensation do not begin to accrue until a work-related injury or illness renders you unable to work at least three shifts. Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits—generally equivalent to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, paid out weekly—may be available once this three-day waiting period passes. If you cannot return to work for two weeks or more, you could receive TTD benefits retroactively for those first three days missed.
In certain situations, you may be able to perform work in some capacity following an on-the-job injury but be unable to work your regular hours or complete your usual tasks, in which case you may be eligible for temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits equivalent to the difference between your pre-injury average wages and post-injury average wages during your partial disability. TPD benefits generally last until your authorized treating physician allows you to return to work or declares you have reached maximum medical improvement—or, if you fail to appear to a medical appointment after rescheduling.
If you are still unable to perform work after reaching maximum medical improvement as determined by your treating physician, you may be entitled to permanent disability benefits. Permanent total disability (PTD) is paid at the same rate as temporary total disability. Permanent partial disability may be paid out in different values depending on whether the claimant has a “scheduled” or “non-scheduled” impairment—terms a knowledgeable attorney in Denver could explain in more detail as needed.
While workers’ compensation benefits in Denver are not considered taxable income, they may be offset by other types of benefits from other systems—for example, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). You must also meet various requirements to continue receiving benefits, even if you have a medically proven disability.
Understanding how state law may apply to your situation and ensure you get the maximum benefits available could be much easier with support from a seasoned workplace accident lawyer. Call today to discuss your options.
