Although Colorado workers likely know that they can pursue recovery of medical expenses after suffering work-related injuries, they may be concerned about the time it will take before they receive benefits. To limit any lost wages, injured workers will likely want to get back to work as soon as possible, but if they are temporarily disabled, wage replacement may be sought. By following the right steps, the benefits may be received without long delays.
The first step after suffering a workplace injury is to seek medical attention without concern about the cost. To ensure prompt attention to the claim, the injury must be reported to the employer or supervisor immediately — preferably in writing with a copy kept for evidence. The worker will then receive a claim form to fill out. It is also advisable to keep a copy of the completed form before handing it back to the employer.
The employer must then notify the workers’ compensation insurance company immediately to avoid delaying the payment of the medical bills. In addition, the employer must provide the insurer with verification of the injured worker’s wage level within the required time. The time insurers in different states take to advise the victim whether the claim is accepted or denied differ, but it is usually within about 30 days. If the insurers approve the claim, payments will commence soon.
However, if insurers deny claims of injured workers, review hearings may be requested within a specified time limit. If a request is denied, an appeal may be filed. This may become complicated, and it makes sense to seek the support of an experienced Colorado workers’ compensation attorney to help navigate the claim from start to end — even through the appeals process if necessary.
Source: FindLaw, “Timeline for Your Workers’ Compensation Claim“, Christopher Coble, Accessed on Dec. 24, 2016
