The Benefits of Settling Your Workers' Compensation Case Before Year-End

Why is it advantageous to settle your workers' compensation case in Glenwood Springs before the end of the year? One significant benefit is the potential to expedite the process. Here's why:

• Insurance Company Year-End Goals: Many insurance companies have annual settlement quotas to meet. As the year draws to a close, they may be more motivated to resolve outstanding claims to achieve these goals. This can create a more favorable environment for negotiations and increase the likelihood of a quicker settlement.
• Reduced Workload: Insurance adjusters often have a heavy workload throughout the year. As the year-end approaches, they may be more focused on closing cases to reduce their backlog and prepare for the upcoming year. This can potentially lead to faster responses and more efficient communication.
• Avoid Potential Delays: Waiting to settle your case can introduce uncertainties and risk potential delays. New policies, changes in adjusters, or increased caseloads can all contribute to a prolonged resolution process. By settling before year-end, you can minimize these risks and potentially achieve a faster outcome.

While there are benefits to settling before year-end, it's important to note that each case is unique. The specific timeline and factors influencing settlement can vary. Consulting with local Colorado workers compensation attorneys is highly recommended to assess your individual situation and determine the best course of action.

A timely settlement can not only alleviate stress but also provide financial relief and allow you to focus on your recovery. By understanding the potential advantages of settling before year-end, you can make informed decisions about your workers' compensation case.

Call (970) 945-2396 today or schedule your free consultation online.

Common Remote Worker Injuries

While working from home eliminates the hazards of commuting and crowded offices, it isn’t 100% risk-free.

Many remote workers are still vulnerable to certain injuries, some of which may qualify for workers’ compensation. Understanding these common injuries can help prevent them and or ensure proper treatment if they occur.

Here are some examples:

Repetitive Strain Injuries

One of the most prevalent injuries among remote workers is repetitive strain injuries. Typing on a computer for long periods, especially without proper breaks or ergonomic support, can lead to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. This occurs when there’s excessive pressure on the median nerve in your wrist, often caused by poor wrist positioning or repetitive motion.

Slips and Falls

Home office setups often don’t meet the same safety standards as professional office spaces, leaving remote workers more susceptible to accidents like tripping on wires, slipping on rugs, or stumbling over office equipment. These accidents can lead to severe injuries like sprains, fractures, or even concussions.

Ergonomic Injuries

When your office chair is a dining room chair and your desk is a kitchen counter, you’re putting yourself at risk for ergonomic injuries. Poor seating and desk arrangements can cause back and neck pain, which, over time, can lead to chronic discomfort and more serious musculoskeletal issues.

Without the proper support from chairs, keyboards, or monitors, remote workers may experience increased tension in their spine, neck, and shoulders.

Read our latest article here to learn more! 

Consult with a Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorney to File a Claim for Your Remote Work Injuries

While many workers assume they are only eligible for workers’ compensation if they’re injured at their traditional office, remote workers can also file claims if they’re injured while performing work-related duties at home.

Injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, slips and falls, or ergonomic injuries can be covered under workers compensation, provided they occurred in the course of employment.

Contact our Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys if you’d like to learn more!

 

 

 

 

Challenges of Remote Workers’ Compensation Claims

Noticing the beginning signs of carpal tunnel in your wrists from all the typing you do at your remote job?

Disappointed because you don’t think remote workers qualify for workers’ comp?

You will be pleasantly surprised to learn that this is not the case!

Traditionally, workers’ comp applies to workers injured in the physical workspace but, as the way we work has evolved, so has the nature of workers’ compensation.  

Here are some of the biggest challenges that come with remote workers’ comp cases:

Proof of Injury

While remote workers do qualify for workers’ comp, proving their cases can be much more difficult and require more evidence. Remote workers often face much more scrutiny in proving that their injury occurred during working hours.

Employer Pushback

Some employers may try and dispute claims, arguing that the injury wasn’t work-related, especially if it’s difficult to prove.

If you’d like advice on how to fight against these challenges, read our latest article here to learn more!

Our Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Will Fight for Your Rights!

As workplaces continue to shift to remote work, it’s important to understand the unique challenges associated with remote workers’ compensation claims.

While remote workers’ are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, proving their cases can be more complex due to the lack of a physical workspace. Employers may also resist claims making it necessary for injured employees to have strong legal representation.

If you’re a remote worker facing an injury in Colorado, consulting with our Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys can help your case. We can help you navigate the complexities of your case, gather the necessary evidence, and advocate for your rights.

Contact us today if you’d like to learn more!

 

Examples of Injuries in Partial vs. Total Disability Cases

Did you know there are several different types of disability benefits?

The severity of your injury helps to determine which type of disability benefits you qualify for. 

Read our latest article to understand the main differences between permanent and temporary disabilities, and read below to learn about the different types of categories that fall under permanent and temporary disabilities: 

Temporary Total Disability (TTD)

TTD benefits can be provided when a worker is completely unable to work for a temporary period. The worker receives a portion of their average weekly wage until they can return to work or reach maximum medical improvement.

Examples of the types of injuries that fall under this category are more severe injuries like fractured bones, severe sprains, burns, surgical recovery, and concussions. 

Temporary Partial Disability (TPD)

TPD benefits are for workers who can improve some, but not all, of their job duties while recovering. These benefits help compensate for the difference between the worker’s pre-injury wages and their post-injury earning capacity.

Examples of the types of injuries that fall under this category are less severe but similar to TTD injuries like minor fractures, moderate sprains and strains, carpal tunnel syndrome, and partial soft tissue injuries. 

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)

PPD benefits are for workers who suffer from a permanent impairment that affects their ability to work, but doesn’t completely prevent them from working. The amount and duration of PPD benefits depends on the severity of the impairment and the impact on the worker’s ability to earn a living.

Examples of the injuries that fall under this category are the loss of fingers and toes, hearing loss, nerve damage, vision impairment, chronic tendonitis, and amputation of a limb. 

Permanent Total Disability (PTD)

PTD benefits are provided when a worker is permanently and completely unable to perform any type of work due to their injury. These benefits often last for the rest of the worker’s life or until they reach retirement age.

Examples of the injuries that fall under this category are severe spinal cord injuries, severe brain injuries, advanced cancers, blindness, severe psychiatric disorders, organ failure, and hearing loss. 

Wondering What Benefits You Qualify for After Your Work Injury? Our Colorado Workers’ Comp Attorneys Are Here for You! 

Figuring out the different types of disability benefits available through workers’ compensation can be challenging, especially when you’re dealing with the aftermath of a work-related injury. 

If you’re unsure about which benefits you qualify for, our Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys are here to guide you so you can receive the appropriate support and compensation that you deserve. 

Contact us today to get started! 

Key Differences Between Temporary and Permanent Disability Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Do you know which benefits you’re entitled to?

If you recently suffered from a work-related injury, the workers’ compensation benefits you receive are determined by several different factors such as your post-injury work capacity, injury duration, and the severity of your injury. 

If you’re wondering whether you’re eligible for temporary or permanent disability benefits, here are their key differences:

Duration 

Temporary disability benefits are provided for a limited time, typically until the worker can return to work or reaches maximum medical improvement. 

Permanent disability benefits are long-term and may continue for the rest of the worker’s life, depending on the severity of the injury. 

Work Capacity 

Temporary disability assumes that the worker will eventually recover and return to work. 

Permanent disability acknowledges that the worker’s condition will not significantly improve, affecting their ability to work indefinitely. 

Benefit Calculation 

Temporary disability benefits are usually based off a percentage of the worker’s average weekly wage. 

Permanent disability benefits are often based on a predetermined schedule of impairments, which account for the severity and overall impact of the injury. 

Read our latest article here to learn more. 

Our Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorneys are Here to Help You Navigate Your Benefits! 

Recognizing which type of disability, you’re dealing with will help you navigate the workers’ compensation system much more easily and effectively. 

Consulting with our knowledgeable Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys in invaluable in navigating the complexities of your workers’ compensation benefits, and making sure that you receive the support that you need. 

We’re here for you! We’ll help you understand your rights, advocate on your behalf, and maximize the benefits you’re entitled to under Colorado state law. 

Contact us today to get started! 

Tips for Occupational Drivers to Protect Themselves on The Roads

Do you have a job that requires you to spend lots of time on the road?

Are you working in construction or transportation?

For many people, driving is a part of their job that they can’t avoid. Whether you’re a delivery driver, trucker, sales representative or service technician, spending extensive hours on the roads poses a higher risk of motor vehicle fatalities. According to the CDC, about three workers die from traffic-related motor vehicle crashes each day. This is why it’s so important to make sure you’re protecting yourself and implementing these safety practices when on the road for your job.

Avoid the Roads During Busy Times If You Can

Pinnacol Insurance shared that the most dangerous times to be on the roads are in the mornings from 9am to 11am, and afternoons at 4pm when studies show that the most accidents occur. If you’re able to avoid driving during these time frames it’s highly recommended. If you can’t, make sure to be extra alert during these busy hours.

Utilize Safety Technology

Dash cameras are growing increasingly popular and if an accident does occur, it will be recorded so you’ll have evidence in the event that a workers’ compensation case takes place. There are now both inward and outward facing dash cameras available, with some so advanced that they can even detect when a driver is picking up their cellphone to take a call.

In addition to using these, making sure your work vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and collision avoidance systems can all help keep you safe and prevent accidents.

Know the Signs of Fatigue and How to Manage It

Fatigue is a huge risk factor for drivers. Drivers must make sure they are getting enough rest before driving on the roads or operating heavy machinery. Aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per a night will help prevent feeling drowsy at the wheel.  

For those on the road all day long, taking frequent breaks is also helpful. A short break every 2 hours can help you stay alert and refreshed.

Additionally, knowing the signs of fatigue like yawning, heavy eyelids, and difficulty concentrating. If you ever experience these symptoms while on the road, pull over safely and rest.

Read our latest article to learn more!

Our Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Are on Your Side!

Practicing all these safety tips will help you stay safe on the roads and avoid accidents. If you have any questions about your employee rights as a driver, please don’t hesitate to contact our team of Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys with questions.

 

 

How Employers Can Decrease the Risk of Motor Vehicle Fatalities

Have you ever had an employee get into a work-related car accident?

According to Workerslaw.com, driving remains the leading cause of work-related fatalities across the United States.

This statistic is alarming to learn, but it’s also important to know that employers can play a critical role in reducing these risks and protecting their employees. By adopting strategies like incorporating safety technology, proper training, policy enforcement, and creating a culture of safety in the workplace. 

Here are some ways to reduce motor vehicle fatalities in the workplace: 

Don’t Pressure Employees to Take Risks While Driving 

Many employees feel the pressure of responding to work texts and emails ASAP. Employers are encouraged to prioritize their employee’s safety by enforcing that they do not text, email, Zoom, or answer work phone calls while driving. 

Employers should aim to create a culture of safety where employees are encouraged to prioritize safety over productivity. This includes providing support for safety concerns without fear of retaliation. 

Ensure Employees Have Proper Training and Safe Company Vehicles 

Encouraging employees who commute to stay off mobile devices is important, but administering proper training for employees in higher risk industries like construction, oil, transportation, or warehousing is critical is maintaining their safety. 

Comprehensive Driver Training Programs: These types of programs can greatly reduce accident rates by educating employees on defensive driving techniques, fatigue management, and the dangers of distracted driving. 

Regular Vehicle Maintenance: Implementing rigorous maintenance schedules and making sure that all work vehicles are inspected on a regular basis will help prevent mechanical failures and improve safety. 

Safety Technology: Equipping work vehicles with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and collisions avoidance systems can all prevent accidents from occurring. 

Read our latest article to learn more! 

Follow Our Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorney’s Advice to Keep Your Employees Safe! 

Motor vehicle accidents remain the leading cause of job-related deaths in the United States, posing a huge threat to occupational safety. By understanding the causes of these accidents and implementing effective prevention strategies, employers can reduce fatalities and create safer work environments. 

If you’d like advice on how to keep these strategies compliant with your local workers’ comp laws, feel free to contact our team of Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys to learn more!