At Hurt911 Colorado, we understand the challenges and uncertainties that injured workers face. So we’ve created this guide to answer common workplace injury questions.
As a trusted injury care provider in the Denver metro area, we provide chiropractic care, physical therapy, and diagnostic imaging. You don’t have to worry about out-of-pocket expenses since our team gets paid once your claim is resolved. We also offer free transportation to and from our centers to make your treatment as seamless as possible.
We can refer you to experienced work injury lawyers in Colorado.
What Should I Do if I’m Injured at Work in Colorado?
If you are injured at work, taking the right steps immediately can help protect your health and ensure your eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits:
- Report the Injury: Inform your employer as soon as possible. Colorado law requires employees to report work-related injuries in writing within ten working days.
- Seek Medical Attention: If the injury requires immediate care, seek emergency medical attention. For non-emergencies, follow your employer’s process for choosing a designated provider.
- Document the Accident: Keep detailed records of the injury, including when, where, and how it occurred. This documentation may be critical for your claim.
- Follow Treatment Plans: Following your prescribed treatment plan is essential for recovery.
How Soon Should I Report a Workplace Injury in Colorado?
Colorado employees must report a workplace injury within ten working days. The report should be provided to your employer in writing. Your workers’ compensation benefits could be reduced for missing the deadline, so it’s essential to act promptly.
Which Doctor Should I See for a Work Injury?
Colorado law requires your employer to provide you with a designated provider list of up to four doctors or clinics. You must choose one of the providers from this list to handle your treatment. If your employer does not provide the designated provider list in writing within seven business days of your injury report, you may choose your own doctor.
At Hurt911 Injury Care, we offer a range of medical services to support your recovery, including physical therapy, chiropractic care, and diagnostic imaging. If you’re unsure about your options, consult with a workers’ compensation lawyer for guidance.
What Are Some of the Most Common Workplace Injuries?
Workplace injuries can range from minor to severe, but some types are more common than others, including:
- Back and Neck Injuries: Often caused by lifting heavy objects, poor posture, or repetitive movements.
- Sprains and Strains: These injuries frequently occur due to sudden movements, lifting, or overexertion.
- Fractures and Dislocations: Falls, slips, and collisions with equipment often lead to broken bones or dislocated joints.
- Repetitive Stress Injuries: Continuous motions, such as typing or assembly work, can lead to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Head and Brain Injuries: Falls or being struck by objects can result in concussions or traumatic brain injuries.
- Joint and Soft Tissue Injuries: Shoulders, knees, and hips are particularly vulnerable to workplace injuries.
Our team at Hurt911 Colorado is experienced in treating all types of workplace injuries, helping you recover and return to work safely.
How Can Hurt911 Help Injured Workers Recover?
Hurt911 Injury Care offers a variety of treatments to aid your recovery, including:
- Diagnostic Imaging: We provide X-rays and MRI scans to accurately diagnose injuries and monitor progress.
- Chiropractic Care: Our chiropractors specialize in treating musculoskeletal injuries by restoring alignment, relieving pressure on nerves, and reducing pain.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapists design customized rehabilitation plans to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance recovery.
- Free Transportation: To make your treatment as convenient as possible, we offer free transportation to and from our injury centers, ensuring you can receive care even if transportation is a barrier.
- Attorney Referrals: We can refer patients to experienced Colorado workers’ compensation lawyers.
With no out-of-pocket costs until your claim is resolved, Hurt911 Injury Care provides high-quality care without the financial burden.
How Much Does Work Injury Treatment at Hurt911 Cost?
At Hurt911 Colorado, there are no out-of-pocket costs for patients. You pay nothing upfront. Our team gets paid once your workers’ compensation claim is resolved. This ensures that financial concerns don’t interfere with your ability to receive the care you need.
How Can Physical Therapy Help Recovery After a Work Injury?
Physical therapy is essential for recovering from many workplace injuries. At Hurt911 Colorado, our physical therapists design individualized treatment plans to address your specific injury. Benefits of physical therapy include:
- Improved Mobility: Exercises focus on restoring range of motion and flexibility in affected joints and muscles.
- Pain Reduction: Therapeutic techniques like stretches and strengthening exercises can alleviate pain.
- Strengthening Muscles: Physical therapy can help rebuild strength and prevent future injuries.
- Enhanced Functionality: Targeted exercises improve overall functionality, enabling you to return to work safely.
Physical therapy supports a faster, more comprehensive recovery, helping you regain confidence in your physical abilities.
How Can a Chiropractor Help Treat a Workplace Injury?
Chiropractic care is particularly effective for injuries involving the spine, neck, and joints. Our chiropractors use adjustments and other hands-on techniques to:
- Alleviate Pain: Realignment of the spine and joints can relieve pressure and reduce pain.
- Improve Mobility: Chiropractic adjustments restore proper movement in joints, helping you move more freely.
- Reduce Inflammation: Techniques used by chiropractors can reduce inflammation, which promotes healing.
- Enhance Overall Recovery: Chiropractic care complements other treatments by supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
At Hurt911 Colorado, our chiropractors work with you to alleviate pain and improve function, making chiropractic care an integral part of many recovery plans.
Am I Eligible for Workers’ Compensation in Colorado?
In Colorado, almost all employees are covered by workers’ compensation insurance, which is required for businesses with employees. However, independent contractors are not covered under workers’ compensation. Colorado has specific requirements to determine independent contractor status. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, speaking with a workers’ compensation attorney can help clarify your rights.
What Benefits Does Colorado Workers’ Compensation Offer?
Workers’ compensation in Colorado provides several essential benefits to support injured employees:
- Medical Costs: Coverage for all necessary medical treatments, including doctor visits, diagnostic imaging, surgery, medication, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for a portion of wages lost due to an injury that prevents you from working.
- Permanent Disability Benefits: If your injury leads to a permanent impairment, you may be eligible for disability benefits.
- Death Benefits: In the tragic event of a fatal workplace injury, workers’ compensation offers benefits to the surviving family members.
Understanding these benefits can help you plan for recovery and ensure that you and your family are supported during this challenging time.
How Much Does Workers’ Comp Pay in Colorado?
Workers’ compensation in Colorado provides wage replacement benefits, calculated as two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum limit set by the state. These benefits are designed to help cover essential expenses while you’re unable to work. The exact amount you’ll receive depends on your regular earnings and the state’s current maximum rate for wage replacement benefits.
When Will I Start Receiving Workers’ Comp Benefits?
There is a three-day waiting period for workers’ compensation benefits in Colorado. This means that you will not receive compensation for the first three days or shifts missed unless your injury keeps you from working for more than two weeks. In cases where your absence extends beyond two weeks, workers’ compensation will cover your lost wages, including the initial three-day waiting period.
What Should I Do if My Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied?
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Many injured workers choose to work with a workers’ compensation lawyer at this stage to ensure they have the best chance of success. A lawyer can help gather additional evidence, represent you in hearings, and guide you through the appeal process to protect your right to compensation.
How Long Do I Have to File a Workers’ Comp Claim in Colorado?
In Colorado, you must file a workers’ compensation claim within two years of the injury date. While it’s always advisable to file as soon as possible, this two-year deadline provides a window for those who may not have immediately realized the severity of their injury. However, if you delay filing your claim, you risk losing your right to benefits, so it’s best to take action promptly.
Contact Hurt911 Today
At Hurt911 Colorado, we understand the physical and financial toll a workplace injury can take. Our team is here to provide high-quality care, including chiropractic care, physical therapy, and diagnostic imaging. With no upfront costs, free transportation, and a compassionate approach to injury recovery, we are committed to helping you get back on your feet. We can also refer you to an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer.
If you need assistance with your workers’ comp claim or have questions about your treatment options, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help you every step of the way.