Best Workers Compensation Lawyers in Fort Collins

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Fort Collins, Colorado?

  970-419-FCPD (3273) is the non-emergency dispatch line of the local police station in Fort Collins.

• Where can I get a copy of police report for incidents related to my case in Fort Collins, Colorado?

  You may obtain copies of accident and offense reports by making a request in person or via mail to the Records Unit. The Records Unit is located at Police Headquarters, 2221 S. Timberline Road, and can be contacted by dialing (970) 221-6540 and selecting option 5.

• What do you need to provide as evidence for your workers’ compensation claim in Fort Collins?

  To claim workers’ compensation benefits in Fort Collins, you or your lawyer must show evidence of your injuries. You must also prove that the injury occurred at work or while performing your duties. The evidence may include videos or images of your injuries, records of prior injuries of other employees in the workplace, witness statements from colleagues or supervisors, your personal written statement of what happened, medical records of your injuries and treatment, and expert testimony.

• Are you still eligible for workers' compensation benefits in Fort Collins if you caused the accident?

  In Fort Collins, workers' compensation follows a no-fault system. If you suffer an injury on the job and submit a workers' compensation claim, you may receive benefits regardless of who was responsible for the accident. However, there are a few exceptions where an employee's benefits may be limited, such as if they failed to use provided safety equipment, knowingly disregarded safety rules, misled their employer about their physical ability, or were under the influence of certain unprescribed controlled substances when injured.

• What are some statistics involving worker-related injuries in Fort Collins?

  The industries with the highest number of work-related injuries in Fort Collins are administration, retail, transportation, and construction, according to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. The most common injuries reported include sprains and strains, as well as falls and contact with objects or equipment. In addition, over 50% of work-related injury claims result in more than 10 days of missed work. These statistics emphasize the significance of implementing safety measures in the workplace and having access to workers' compensation benefits in the event of an injury.

• Can you choose your own doctor for workers' compensation treatment in Fort Collins?

  In most cases, you are required to choose a doctor from a list of approved providers that your employer provides in Fort Collins. However, if your employer does not provide a list or if you are not satisfied with the treatment you are receiving, you may be able to request a change of physician. In this case, it is recommended that you seek legal counsel promptly to help you secure treatment from a physician who prioritizes your welfare.

• What is the process to file a workers' comp claim in Fort Collins?

  To file a workers' comp claim in Fort Collins, you need to complete a claims benefits form and submit it to the Colorado Division of Workers' Compensation. Once you've submitted the form, you should expect to receive a response from the insurance company in roughly 20 days. If your claim is approved, you may evaluate the offered benefits to ensure they cover your losses. If it's denied, you have the option to appeal the decision and request a hearing.

• What does a workers’ compensation attorney do?

  Workers’ compensation attorneys help injured employees recover monetary benefits following workplace accidents and illnesses. Attorneys in this practice area provide legal advice, gather evidence, review medical records, prepare petitions, and negotiate insurance settlements. They also represent clients’ interests during court cases and administrative hearings overseen by state workers’ compensation boards.

• What are the benefits of filing a workers’ compensation claim?

  Workers’ compensation insurance gives employees access to vital cash benefits in case of workplace injuries or illnesses. Filing a claim can help injured workers pay for medical care, physical therapy, and essential living expenses while they recover from a temporary or permanent disability. Workers’ compensation also pays for funeral and burial expenses following fatal workplace injuries.

• How long does a workers’ compensation claim stay open?

  Workers’ compensation claims typically remain open as long as the individual is receiving treatment or until the injured party reaches maximum medical improvement. This milestone varies for each person, and it can take years to determine whether a disability is temporary or permanent. Additionally, there’s a fixed time limit for filing a lawsuit. The statute of limitations can be anywhere from six months to two years from the date of the injury or the date of the last payment, depending on the worker’s state of residence. A qualified attorney can explain your state’s specific rules.

• What is the average payout for a workers’ compensation claim?

  Nationally, the average workers’ compensation claimant receives $21,800. Payouts range from $2,000 on the low end to upwards of $60,000 for well-compensated workers in high-income areas. The exact amount depends on the claimant’s average weekly paycheck, the extent of the injuries, and their state of residence. Individuals who accept an insurance settlement or initial offer typically receive less than those who negotiate or have an attorney represent them before an arbitrator or workers’ compensation judge.

• How are settlements calculated in workers’ compensation cases?

  Settlements typically cover current and future medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation or retraining, and two-thirds of lost wages. The total amount may vary depending on whether the worker’s disability is temporary or permanent. Workers’ compensation also pays death benefits, including funeral expenses and two-thirds of wages for up to 25 years or a state-specified maximum.

• What is workers comp?

  Workers' compensation is an insurance program that provides medical care, rehabilitation, and other benefits for employees who are injured or fall ill while performing assigned work duties. Common reasons for filing a workers' comp claim include slip and fall injuries, machinery accidents, or muscle strains while lifting heavy items.

  All businesses must carry some form of workers' compensation insurance, with minimum guidelines imposed by the state of residence. Workers' comp is intended to safeguard both the employee and the employer by providing a social safety net. This can protect companies from civil suits and guarantee that injured employees receive the benefits they need.

• What does workers comp cover?

  Workers' compensation insurance covers benefits associated with a wide range of accidents and illnesses that may occur in a place of work. This can include:

  • Medical benefits, such as payments for treatments, hospitalizations, or surgeries
  • Compensation for lost wages while not working
  • Coverage for ongoing care, such as physical therapy
  • Continued access to benefits, including insurance provided through an employer
  • Disability benefits, if an injury results in a permanent loss of functioning in some manner
  • Death benefits and funeral expense coverage

  How and when workers' compensation coverage applies depends on the illness or injury in question and the results of a medical exam. An unsatisfactory ruling by an insurer can be appealed with help from a workers' comp attorney.

  
  

• What does a workers comp defense attorney do?

  A workers' compensation defense attorney is a legal professional who represents the employer in a workers’ comp case. Typically, the defense attorney works to minimize the employer’s liability and reduce the amount of benefits to be paid out.

• When does workers comp start paying?

  How and when workers' comp starts paying can depend on both the circumstances and the state in which an injury took place. In most areas, benefits related to medical care start paying out immediately, even before a claim is formally processed or accepted. Once a case is approved, injured workers may be entitled to other benefits, including coverage for lost wages.

• How much is workers comp insurance for self-employed people?

  Workers' compensation isn't required for self-employed individuals, but those working in dangerous industries, such as construction or manufacturing, may choose to purchase policies. In some cases, employers may request this coverage when hiring a contractor. While costs will vary based on industry and location, most freelancers can expect to pay around $25 to $50 per month.

• How do I file a workers comp claim?

  A workers' comp claim is best filed as soon as an injury occurs. In some states, there are time limits, such as one month following an incident.

  After an injury, an employee must notify their employer. The employer must then provide access to the necessary forms and offer guidance. Employees must fill out all forms and return them to the employer who then files them with the insurer. Some states have additional requirements, including assessment by a medical provider. Once the paperwork has been filed, the insurance provider issues a ruling. If the ruling is unfavorable, the employee may choose to appeal the decision with the support of an attorney.