As a law firm that devotes a substantial portion of its practice to workers’ compensation claims, we hear a lot of questions from our clients about some of the rules and procedures that apply to these types of cases.
This blog post will address some of these common questions, and will provide you with some basic information to help you better understand what happens after a workplace injury.
Do I have to tell my employer about an injury suffered in a workplace accident?
Yes. Under Colorado law, in order to be able to take advantage of the protections offered by the workers’ comp system, you must notify your employer as soon as possible about the incident. You could be penalized if you delay in reporting your injuries, so, it is extremely important to disclose this injury to your employer immediately.
What happens after I report the accident?
You should receive medical treatment as soon as possible. Your employer will probably have a list of designated providers, and one of these doctors will treat your injuries. Your employer will report the accident to his or her insurance carrier, starting your workers’ comp claim.
Do I have to see a doctor on my employer’s list of providers?
You have the option to see your own physician, but, this could result in the loss of payment of your medical expenses. If your employer does not provide you with a list, you can see any doctor that you choose.
Will an employer’s doctor make me go back to work before I have recovered from my injuries?
We hope that this doesn’t happen, but there are situations where medical providers may feel pressured to get an individual back before he or she reaches maximum medical improvement. If this happens in your case, you may have some options available to you to contest this decision.
To learn more about your case, you should contact an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer to gain a clear understanding of your rights. This can be a complicated process, and you might find yourself frustrated while dealing with your condition.
An attorney can help you navigate throughout the workers’ compensation system, and stand up for you when you encounter challenges. This will help ensure that you receive the maximum amount of benefits that you are entitled to under the law.
