Workers’ Compensation
Tom Quinn began practicing worker’s compensation law in 1989 and can help you with your claim. He accepts all types of work related injury cases including back and neck, carpal tunnel, wrist, arm, leg, knee, eye and head injuries.
Worker’s compensation has become an increasingly complex area of law. An injured worker today faces many decisions. Here are answers to some common questions.
What should I do if I’m injured on the job?
Report the injury to your employer in writing as soon as possible. A simple hand-written letter is sufficient. Make sure to sign and date your letter reporting the injury and keep a copy for yourself. Do not delay or take anyone’s word that a verbal report is sufficient.
Can I choose my own doctor for my on the job injury?
No, under Colorado law the employer has the first right to select a treating doctor for you. However, under certain circumstances you may be able to choose your own doctor if the employer fails to select one for you.
What types of worker’s compensation benefits am I entitled to?
You may be entitled to any or all of these types of benefits:
Medical Benefits: The employer is required to provide you with reasonable and necessary medical treatment to cure and relieve the effects of your work-related injury. Under the Workers’ Compensation Act, the employer is allowed to select your physician and all medical care providers. However, you can request a change of doctors under certain circumstances.
Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits: An injured worker who is disabled from working due to his work-related injury for more than three working days is entitled to TTD benefits of two thirds of his average weekly wage. There are state limitations on average weekly wage.
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Benefits: When an injured worker reaches maximum medical improvement (MMI), a Level II accredited physician completes an impairment rating evaluation. Impairment is determined as a percentage based on whether the injury is whole person or scheduled. A back or neck injury is evaluated as a whole person injury whereas an arm, leg, eye or other body part is ordinarily rated as a scheduled injury.
Am I entitled to a jury trial for my worker’s comp case?
No, if you case does go to hearing, it will be heard by a single administrative law judge.
Are there deadlines that apply in my worker’s compensation case?
Yes, there are several important deadlines. You may waive rights by not acting within the time periods allowed. The most important concerns the filing of a final admission by the insurance company. You have only 30 days to act or your case is closed.