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! 

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!

Tactics Insurance Companies Use to Deny Workers’ Comp Claims for People with Preexisting Conditions

Are insurance companies not taking your workers’ compensation claim seriously because you have a preexisting condition?

Insurance companies often attempt to deny claims or reduce compensation by arguing that the preexisting condition is responsible for the injury rather than the workplace incident. This can lead to lengthy disputes and legal proceedings to determine the true cause and extent of the injury. 

If you feel like you’re at your wit’s end arguing with insurance companies who put all the blame of your workplace injury on your preexisting conditions, our Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorneys are ready to help you prepare and counteract them! 

Here are some to be aware of: 

Delay Tactics 

Delaying the claims process is a common tactic. Insurance companies will often drag out the process in hopes that the person filing the claim will become frustrated and give up. 

Delays can include slow responses to communication, repeated requests for documentation, and postponing hearings or examinations. 

Claiming Lack of Evidence 

Insurance companies can also claim lack of evidence by disputing medical reports, or claiming that the documentation that was provided does not prove that the cause of the injury was work-related. 

Lowball Offers 

Insurance companies often offer quick, lowball settlements in hopes that the person filing the claim will accept the offer under financial desperation or frustration with the lengthy claims process. These offers are typically far less than what the person filing the claim is entitled to receive. 

Read our latest article to learn more! 

Our Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Will Help You Fight Back Against Insurance Company Tactics!

By understanding these tactics that insurance companies use, and partnering with our Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys you can create a strong defense that will help you get the full compensation you’re entitled to. 

If you need support with your case, and live near Denver, Glenwood Springs, or Colorado Springs, or any of their surrounding cities, contact us today. 

We’re ready to help you get your workers’ compensation process started!

What Information is in My Mental Health Records and How is it Protected?

Wondering if your mental health records are protected? 

Mental health conversations have become more common in recent years in the workplace. This is a positive step, but it can also raise questions for employees. A common question our Colorado workers compensation attorneys hear is, “Can my employer legally view my mental health records?”

Privacy Laws Protect Your Mental Health Records 

The goods news is that strict privacy laws, especially the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA), protect your mental health records. Healthcare providers are legally bound to keep this information confidential, with some exceptions such as danger to yourself or others. 

Even if your employer sponsors your health insurance, they usually can’t access your mental health records due to HIPPA laws. 

Some instances where your employer can legally access your mental health records: 

• Reasonable Accommodation Requests 

• Legal Investigations 

• Voluntary Disclosure

• Employee Assistance Programs 

Know Your Rights and Location 

Mental health record privacy laws can vary by location and employment type. Employers must handle this information with the utmost confidentiality no matter where they’re located. 

Check out our latest article to learn more! 

Empower Yourself: Consult a Colorado Workers Compensation Attorney 

If you have concerns about your employer accessing your mental health records, a Colorado workers compensation attorney can help. Understanding your rights allows you to make informed decisions about disclosing information and advocating for your well-being at work. 

Contact us today, we’d love to help! 

Navigating Employer Requests for Your Mental Health Records

Curious as to what mental health records your boss can legally see?

In recent years, conversations surrounding mental health in the workplace have become increasingly important, shining a light on employee rights, privacy, and workplace policies. 

A common concern that often arises is whether employers have access to their employees’ mental health records. 

Understanding Mental Health Record Laws

Mental health records contain sensitive information such as diagnoses, treatment plans, therapy sessions, and medications prescribed by mental health professionals. These records are protected by strict privacy laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA). 

Instances When Your Employer Can Access Your Mental Health Records:

Reasonable Accommodation Requests: If you request reasonable accommodations from your employer due to a mental health condition, they may require documentation to assess your needs and ensure compliance with relevant laws. 

Voluntary Disclosure: Your employer may access your mental health records if you voluntarily disclose information about your mental health status, whether through conversation or formal documentation. 

Legal Obligations and Investigations: There may be a legal obligations or investigations that require employers to access your mental health records, such as workers’ compensation claims related to mental health conditions or concerns about workplace safety. 

Learn more in our latest article! 

Protect Your Rights: Consult a Colorado Workers Compensation Attorney

If you’re concerned about your employer accessing or requesting your mental health records, or how your mental health information is handled in your workplace, seeking legal guidance is crucial. Consulting a Colorado workers compensation attorney can help you understand your rights and empower you to make informed decisions about disclosing sensitive information and advocating for your well-being at work. 

Contact us to learn more about your rights and how we can assist you in protecting your mental health privacy in the workplace. Your well-being matters, and we’re here to help you navigate these important issues!

Long-Term Experience Makes a Difference!

For over fifty years, we’ve been championing the rights of hard-working individuals like you to fight for their workers’ compensation benefits in Glenwood Springs and the surrounding area. William G. Kaufman & Mathew Kaufman continue to work together to provide fair, honest, and aggressive representation.

Don’t just take our word for it - hear what our clients have to say on Google:

“My experience with the Kaufman’s has far exceeded any of my expectations. I was treated with professionalism and respect every step of the way. Each interaction left me feeling confident in the process. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.” Amy, Google Review

Read more reviews here.

Learn more about how our local family worker’s compensation attorney can make a difference for you here.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today to Get Started!

If you have questions about your workers' compensation rights, speak to experienced Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys today! We make sure you and your case get the attention you deserve! Call (970) 945-2396 today or schedule your free consultation online.

Personalized Attention You Deserve

Our clients often express gratitude for our attentive approach. “I’m so glad you were there to answer my questions.” Matt Kaufman, our lead attorney, takes his time to truly listen to your worries and address them with care. You won’t feel overlooked or dismissed here – the same attorney you speak to will represent you diligently at every stage of your case, including your hearing.

Learn more about how our local family worker’s compensation attorney can make a difference for you here.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today to Get Started!

If you have questions about your workers' compensation rights, speak to experienced Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys today! We make sure you and your case get the attention you deserve! Call (970) 945-2396 today or schedule your free consultation online.

How can a workers’ compensation attorney help you?

 You have options. A workers’ compensation attorney may assist you with the following:

• Filing your workers’ compensation claim

• Ensuring that your claim includes necessary details, such as medical information and lost wages 

• Reviewing the categories of compensation and helping you apply for all the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve

• Determining if you’re being paid fairly for lost income

• Understanding the steps involved in a claim, and knowing what to do at each stage

• Filing appeals and requesting hearings, if needed

• Evaluating other types of compensation (personal injury claims or disability benefits) and whether these remedies are appropriate for your case

Learn more about how Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys can help you get the benefits you need here.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today to Get Started!

If you have questions about your workers' compensation rights, speak to experienced Glenwood Springs workers’ compensation attorneys today! We make sure you and your case get the attention you deserve! (970) 945-2396.

Facts About Back Injuries in the Workplace

Do you suffer due to a back injury after a workplace accident?

Do you have back pain because of a repetitive stress injury?

Did you know that some workers are more likely to suffer after a back injury than others?

Research shows that common causes of workers’ back injuries include:

• Repeated bending
• Twisting motions
• Pushing and pulling motions

Learn the facts about back injuries in the workplace and how you can prevent them here.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today to Get Started!

If you have questions about your workers' compensation rights, speak to experienced Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys today! We make sure you and your case get the attention you deserve! (970) 945-2396.

What to Do if Your Workers Compensation Claim is Denied

Are you struggling to make ends meet because of a workplace injury? 

Do you think you may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits? 

If your workers’ compensation was wrongfully denied, we can investigate further. A denied claim is not the end. Here’s what you can do to improve your chances of receiving financial compensation: 

Get an Attorney: Your odds of receiving a positive outcome increase substantially when an attorney represents you in court. When you represent yourself, you’ll likely be outmaneuvered by the insurance company.

Provide Compelling Evidence: Providing substantial evidence supports your claim.  An administrative law judge could review new evidence to support an appeal. Footage of the incident, witness testimony, and records are all potentially good evidence. 

Petition to Review: If you’re still unhappy with the outcome, you can petition to review the denial. 

Learn more about what to do if your workers compensation claim is denied here.

If you have questions about your workers’ compensation rights, work with one of our experienced Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys! We want to get you the compensation you deserve. Call now for your free initial consultation at (970) 945-2396

Why Was My Workers Compensation Claim Denied?

Were you injured at work and didn’t receive your claim?  If you’re injured on the job, you may be entitled to workers' compensation.  Let’s look at possible reasons why your claim may be denied.

● You filed too late 

● Inconsistent statements compared to hospital records

● No witness to the accident 

● Records show you may have been under the influence of drugs or alcohol

● You chose not to give a statement 

Learn more about what to do if your claim is denied here.

Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation with Us Today!

We want to make sure you get the financial benefits that you deserve! 

Your initial consultation with our team is free, so don’t hesitate to make an appointment.  Reach out to our Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys today! 

How to Determine if Your Injury is Work-Related

Sometimes the accident and the resulting injuries are obvious: it’s clear the accident happened at work, and that the injuries were caused by the accident. However, in some cases, an employer or insurance adjuster may have doubts about how and where your injury happened. 

Learn more here!

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today to Get Started!

If you have questions about your workers' compensation rights, speak to an experienced Colorado workers compensation attorney today! We make sure you and your case get the attention you deserve! (970) 945-2396.

Determining if an Injury is Work-Related

Is your injury work-related?

How can you prove it?

It can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible with the best worker’s compensation attorney on your side. Your odds increase when you have an attorney fighting for your rights in court. Our Colorado workers compensation attorney specializes in workers compensation benefits and take cases many other attorneys refuse.

Learn more here!

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today to Get Started!

If you have questions about your workers' compensation rights, speak to an experienced Colorado workers compensation attorney today! We make sure you and your case get the attention you deserve! (970) 945-2396.

Hospitality Workers’ Compensation in Colorado

Effective risk management protocol is imperative for those who work in the hospitality industry like restaurants as well as housekeeping. The bar, kitchen and dining floor can pose many risks, particularly when workers are striving to provide top-quality service. The most common injuries for these workers stem from burns, lifting and falls.

Minimizing the risk is key to keeping workers safe and healthy on the job. Have you been injured on the job? Hospitality workers’ who have suffered injuries while working should speak with an experienced attorney if they have questions about obtaining workers’ compensation benefits in Colorado.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today to Get Started!

If you have questions about your workers' compensation rights, speak to our experienced Colorado workers’ compensation attorney today! We make sure you and your case get the attention you deserve! (970) 945-2396.

Housekeeper Workers’ Compensation in Colorado

It’s hard work to get a hotel in good working order and you need housekeepers who are good at what they do to make it happen.

Among the most common injuries for hotel housekeepers are: 

• Musculoskeletal disorders involving the joints, ligaments, muscles, nerves, tendons, neck and back. 
• Acute trauma, such as contusions, fractures, lacerations, burns and strains/sprains.
• Chemical exposure.

Housekeepers who have suffered injuries while working should speak with an experienced attorney if they have questions about obtaining workers’ compensation benefits in Colorado.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today to Get Started!

If you have questions about your workers' compensation rights, speak to our experienced Colorado workers’ compensation attorney today! We make sure you and your case get the attention you deserve! (970) 945-2396.

Is it Time to Settle Your Case?

Has it taken years to settle your worker’s compensation case?

Are you frustrated waiting to get the money you deserve?

Need money now?

The Colorado worker’s compensation attorneys at Kaufman & Kaufman, LLC. will work tirelessly to get you what you deserve. Our legal team can help you determine whether the settlement being offered will:

1. Cover your necessary medical expenses.
2. Determine if it is fair or a low-ball offer.
3. Provides compensation for unforeseen future costs.
4. Is a better option than a lengthy trial.

Protect Your Rights! Contact an Experienced Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today!

If you have questions about your workers' compensation rights, speak to a workers’ compensation attorney in Glenwood Springs today! We make sure you and your case get the attention you deserve! (970) 945-2396 

Settle Your Case Before the End of the Year!

Workers' compensation cases can take from 60 days to often years to settle in Colorado. Of course, most fall somewhere in between. A case can settle at any point during the claims process. However, you have the best chance of settling a claim before the end of the year. Carefully documenting your injuries and taking the right steps now can go a long way to getting you the resolution you deserve.

Contact an experienced worker’s compensation attorney in Glenwood Springs today if you want to settle your case before year end.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today to Get Started!

If you have questions about your workers' compensation rights, speak to our experienced Colorado workers’ compensation attorney today! We make sure you and your case get the attention you deserve! (970) 945-2396.

Trying to Settle Your Worker’s Compensation Claim? Kaufman & Kaufman, LLC. Can Help!

Insurance adjusters want to settle as many cases by the end of the year as possible to look good at their year-end review. Settling and closing cases towards the end of the year, gets them to their goal. Contact an experienced worker’s compensation attorney in Glenwood Springs today if you want to settle your case before year end.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today to Get Started!

If you have questions about your workers' compensation rights, speak to our experienced Colorado workers’ compensation attorney today! We make sure you and your case get the attention you deserve! (970) 945-2396.

Grocery Store Worker’s Compensation Claims in Colorado

The majority of injuries that take place in a grocery store are musculoskeletal disorders, like strains or sprains of the back because of lifting or repetitive motions. Some of the common musculoskeletal injuries that people suffer from include:

• Trigger finger
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Tendinitis
• Muscle strains and sprains
• Epicondylitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome

Are you wondering if your injury qualifies you to file for worker’s compensation in Colorado, contact an experienced attorney in Colorado!

Protect Your Rights! Contact an Experienced Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today!

If you have questions about your workers' compensation rights, speak to a workers’ compensation attorney in Glenwood Springs today! We make sure you and your case get the attention you deserve! (970) 945-2396