Top 10 Questions About Colorado Workers’ Compensation (Answered by an Attorney)
If you’ve been injured on the job in Littleton, Colorado or anywhere in the Denver metro area, you may have questions about your rights under the Colorado workers’ compensation system.
Understanding how the process works can make a big difference in getting the care and benefits you deserve after a work injury.
Below are 10 of the most common Colorado work injury questions, answered clearly and simply by a workers’ compensation attorney who helps injured workers across Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Englewood, Lakewood, Centennial, and surrounding counties.
1. What Is Workers’ Compensation in Colorado?
Workers’ compensation is a state-required insurance program that provides benefits to employees who suffer injuries or illnesses while performing their job duties.
These benefits may include medical treatment, wage replacement, and compensation for permanent injuries — regardless of who was at fault.
2. What Should I Do Immediately After a Workplace Injury?
If you’re hurt at work, report the injury and need for medical treatment to your employer right away — ideally on the same day and in writing.
Seek medical treatment from an authorized provider, and keep copies of all injury reports and medical documentation. Quick reporting helps protect your right to benefits.
3. Can I Choose My Own Doctor After a Work Injury?
In most cases, your employer or their insurance company provides a list of designated medical providers, and you must choose a doctor from that list.
If your employer fails to give you a list, you may have the right to select your own physician under Colorado law.
4. What Benefits Can I Receive Through Workers’ Compensation?
Colorado workers’ compensation benefits can include:
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Payment for all reasonable and necessary medical treatment
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Temporary disability benefits if you miss work
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Permanent disability benefits for lasting injuries
- Scarring and disfigurement
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Vocational rehabilitation in certain cases
5. How Long Do I Have to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
You must report your injury to your employer within ten days and file a claim with the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation within two years of the injury date.
Missing these deadlines can make it harder to receive benefits.
6. What if My Claim Is Denied?
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.
Common reasons for denial include late reporting, disputes about whether the injury was work-related, or missing medical evidence.
Appeals are handled through the Colorado Office of Administrative Courts.
7. Can I Receive Workers’ Compensation for Mental or Emotional Injuries?
Yes — in some cases.
Colorado law recognizes mental health injuries such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression if they are caused by a traumatic workplace event or long-term work-related stress.
Proper medical documentation is essential for these claims.
8. How Are Wage Replacement Benefits Calculated?
Temporary disability benefits are generally equal to two-thirds (66 2/3%) of your average weekly wage, up to a statewide maximum.
The calculation is based on your gross earnings prior to the injury, including overtime and bonuses if applicable.
9. What Happens if My Employer Doesn’t Have Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
All employers in Colorado are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance.
If your employer is uninsured, you can still file a claim through the Colorado Uninsured Employer Fund, which helps injured workers receive benefits even when coverage was missing.
10. How Long Will My Workers’ Compensation Benefits Last?
The duration of your benefits depends on the severity of your injury and your ability to return to work.
Medical benefits continue as long as treatment is reasonably necessary, and wage benefits typically, but not always, last until you can resume your job or reach maximum medical improvement.
Supporting Injured Workers in Littleton and Beyond
The Law Office of Ryan J. Hoover, LLC proudly assists injured workers and their families throughout Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Englewood, Lakewood, Centennial, Douglas County, and Jefferson County.
By understanding your rights under Colorado workers’ compensation law, you can take the right steps to recover physically and financially after a workplace injury.