What to Do After a Catastrophic Work-Related Injury in Colorado

 Posted on December 10, 2020 in Workplace Injury

In most cases, employees who are injured at work in Colorado are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits through their employer. This applies regardless of the severity of the injury, as long as it requires medical care, but it can be especially important for employees who suffer catastrophic injuries that permanently impact their lives. If you are severely injured at work, an attorney can help to ensure that you receive all available benefits.

Common Catastrophic Workplace Injuries

Colorado workers can be seriously injured in a number of ways, especially when their occupations put them in close contact with environmental risks and hazards. Some of the most common catastrophic injuries that occur in the workplace include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), including concussions and other injuries resulting from blunt force impacts to the head. These commonly occur due to falls, vehicle accidents, and accidents involving falling objects or heavy equipment.

• Spinal cord injuries, which may result in full or partial paralysis of a significant portion of the body. These are also usually the result of blunt force trauma, such as in a car crash or a fall from a significant height.

• Amputations, including of the fingers, arms, and legs. A workplace accident involving a sharp object or heavy machinery may immediately sever a limb, or a surgical amputation may be necessary due to the complications of an injury.

• Burn injuries from workplace fires and explosions, common in the oil and gas and construction industries. They can also occur through contact with faulty or exposed electrical current or wiring. Severe burns may result in permanent scarring and disfigurement.

Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim

Catastrophic injuries require immediate care, and it is important that you receive emergency medical treatment. Soon after, within four days if possible, you should notify your employer of your injuries in writing to begin the process of securing benefits. It is also a good idea to file a claim with the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation as soon as possible.

If your employer’s claims adjustor accepts your claim, your medical care will be covered, including the costs of your emergency treatment. Because catastrophic injuries permanently affect your physical, and sometimes mental, abilities, you are also likely to receive benefits for your lost wages, including temporary disability benefits while you recover and permanent disability benefits after you have reached maximum medical improvement. Colorado also offers a special benefit for employees who are permanently scarred or disfigured.

Contact a Larimer County Workplace Injury Attorney

Workplace accidents can occur even when safety protocols are followed, and they can result in minor to serious and even fatal injuries. If you or a loved one is struggling with a severe work-related injury, the reputable Fort Collins workers’ compensation lawyers at Hoggatt Injury Law can help you obtain the benefits you need to assist with your recovery and relief. Contact us today at 970-225-2190 to request a free consultation.

Sources:

https://cdle.colorado.gov/sites/cdle/files/WC_ACT_2020_linked_0.pdf

https://cdle.colorado.gov/sites/cdle/files/Injured_Worker_Guide_2020.pdf