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!

 

 

 

 

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!

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!

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

Construction Site Safety Tips You Must Know

Taking safety precautions can help keep you and your coworkers safe on a construction site, but accidents can still happen. If you have suffered a workplace injury, you might qualify to file a workers' compensation claim. You could be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses as well as recovery of lost wages while you recuperate.

Learn more here!

Get Started Today: Contact an Experienced Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorney!

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.

Preventing Construction Accidents Should be a Priority!

Do you feel your company doesn’t do enough to protect its workers on-the-job to prevent accidents?

You need to protect yourself. Working on a construction site in Colorado can be very dangerous. You constantly have to stay alert for falling objects, live electrical wires, moving vehicles and various other hazards. 

Learn more here!

Get Started Today: Contact an Experienced Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorney!

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.

Are You at Risk For a Workplace Injury?

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), overexertion and falls account for more than $25 billion in workers’ compensation costs in the U.S. 

You may overexert yourself causing an injury working at an office, if you bend, crawl, reach, twist, climb, step, kneel, sit, stand or walk. If you overexert yourself at work, you’re also at risk for a fall.

Do you suffer from a workplace injury? Learn more to see if you quality for workers’ compensation benefits in Colorado. At least speak to a workers’ compensation attorney about your rights.

Eligible for Workers’ Compensation? Contact an Experienced Colorado Workers’ Comp Attorney!

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

What Kind of Worker's Compensation Benefits Do You Qualify For?

What does workers’ compensation cover?

Will it cover my lost wages?

Will it help me pay my medical bills?

How am I going to make ends meet?

Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys at Kaufman & Kaufman, LLC. in Glenwood Springs realize that you’re frustrated and overwhelmed with overcoming your injury. We want to help you get back on your feet again as quickly as possible with the right care and assistance. And this starts when you hire the best representation possible to handle filing for workers’ compensation benefits. 

Get Started Today: Contact an Experienced Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorney!

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.

Prevent Machinery Accidents with Proper Training

Did you suffer from a machinery accident?

Do you think your employer was at fault?

Were you trained appropriately on the machines? 

Lack of training can lead to workplace accidents:

Lack of safety training: If your employer doesn’t show you and your co-workers the correct way to limit risk and respond to an emergency situation then they may be asking for trouble. 

Lack of machine training: If you get your sleeve caught in a machine and know where the emergency shut off button is then injury can be prevented. If you or someone you know hasn’t been properly trained on the equipment then they could suffer from a severe injury.

Employer is unorganized with new employees: it’s critical that employers keep track of new employees and current employees so they don’t skip crucial training or any new training procedures. 

Eligible for Workers’ Compensation? Contact an Experienced Colorado Workers’ Comp Attorney!

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

Proper Training & Machinery Accidents

Workplace accidents will happen no matter what. You can’t prevent all accidents but you can help reduce the chances with proper training and techniques. Industrial workers understand the importance of on-the-job training. Improperly trained workers not only put themselves in danger but also the people surrounding them.

Operating heavy machinery may look like a simple task, however, the responsibility shouldn’t be taken lightly. Proper training will reduce the risk for injury if accidents occur on the job and even reduce the severity of an injury. 

Learn more here!

Get Started Today: Contact an Experienced Colorado Workers’ Comp Attorney!

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