How to Avoid Delays in Your Workers' Compensation Case

 

There are some strategies you can employ to avoid delays in your workers' compensation case including:

• Gather Necessary Documentation: Ensure you have all the required documentation, including medical records, employment information, and witness statements.
• Communicate Effectively: Maintain open and regular communication with your insurance adjuster and attorney. Promptly respond to requests for information and keep them updated on your progress.
• Be Persistent: Don't hesitate to follow up if you don't receive timely responses or if your case seems to be stalled. A proactive approach can help expedite the process.
• Seek Legal Advice: An experienced workers' compensation attorney can provide guidance, negotiate on your behalf, and help you navigate the complexities of the legal system.

By following these tips and considering the benefits of settling before year-end, you can increase your chances of a timely resolution to your workers' compensation case.

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.

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.

 

 

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! 

Don’t agree with your doctor’s assessment?

You have the right to request a change of physician in the state of Colorado. The injured worker can switch to another doctor on the list within the first 90 days.

Do you think you’re in need of further medical care? You’ll have 30 days from the date that’s printed on your Final Admission of Liability to decide if you agree with their determination.

If you don’t agree with this final assessment, you have the right to request a Division Independent Medical Examination (DIME).

Read more about the Colorado DIME process here.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today to Get Started!

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

Not Sure What to Do? Consult with a Worker’s Compensation Attorney First!

It always makes sense to consult with an attorney first. No matter what the specifics of your case are, we’ll let you know whether an attorney is needed immediately or not at all. Don’t waste your time with confusing workers’ compensation questions. We will never charge you to answer ask simple questions, so what are you waiting for?

Learn about why your workers’ compensation claim could be 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

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

Most Common Injuries in the Cannabis Industry

Pinnacol’s claims data from 2021 shows 480 reported job-related injuries in cannabis retail, cultivation, manufacturing, clerical support, and transportation.

The five most common injury causes in the cannabis industry were:

• Strain
• Fall or slip
• Cut
• “Struck by” (being hit by something)
• “Strike” (person hitting something)

Learn more about cannabis workers’ compensation 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.

Employer Failing to Provide You with Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

If an employer fails to carry workers’ compensation insurance, they may receive a cease-and-desist order against their business. This may require them to stop legal business operations until they have insurance.

The business may be subject to fines of up to $250 for every day they don’t have proper coverage. This fine could increase to $500 per day. If a workers’ compensation claim reaches a settlement prior to the penalty, the benefits payable to the employee may increase by 50% for failure to maintain insurance. This could be detrimental to the business.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by how complicated it can be to handle your case on your own, contact one of our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys in Colorado.

Learn more about what happens when your employer fails to provide workers compensation benefits 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.

Can I Still Obtain Benefits After Returning to Work?

It’s not uncommon for employees to be given light duty assignments when they return to work. In general, you’re paid less to perform tasks such as sweeping floors, answering phones or sorting mail. Therefore, you may still be eligible to obtain workers’ compensation benefits while on the job.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by how complicated it can be to handle your case on your own, contact one of our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys in Colorado.

Learn more!

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.

How Does the Workers Compensation System Work?

Kaufman & Kaufman, LLC. is here to help you when the insurance company gives you a hard time about recovering your earned benefits. Benefits you could be entitled to include:

1. You’re entitled to payment of medical bills related to a workplace injury
2. You are also entitled to a financial award
3. It may be possible to obtain benefits after returning to work

Learn more here! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by how complicated it can be to handle your case on your own, contact one of our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys in Colorado.

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.

Delayed Pain Still Entitles You to Worker’s Compensation

Delayed pain can be worrisome, but it could indicate a serious, even life-threatening, medical problem. It’s important to pay attention to what your body is trying to tell you. The onset of delayed pain can also complicate a workers’ compensation claim.

Here are some of the types of pain you may experience after an accident:

• Abdominal pain
• Headaches
• Neck or shoulder pain
• Back pain
• Numbness or tingling
• Emotional suffering

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.

What if Your Pain is Delayed Following an Accident?

Were you injured in a workplace accident?

Was your pain delayed after the accident?

Did you assume you were fine?

Are you wondering if you’re still eligible for worker’s compensation benefits?

It’s always a good idea to contact an attorney to understand your rights! You could potentially lose out on worker’s compensation benefits. Don’t fear asking our legal professionals a question. It might just clear up potential misinformation you could receive from the insurance company. At Kaufman & Kaufman, LLC, there are never any legal fees involved unless we actually start handling your case on your behalf.

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.

Are Healthcare Professionals Eligible for Worker’s Compensation?

Are you a nurse or doctor who has worked with Coronavirus patients?

Have you experienced Coronavirus symptoms?

Did you have to take a leave of absence to recover?

Are you entitled to worker’s compensation?

It is important to note that with COVID 19 or any other communicable disease, an employee has to test positive for the disease and it must be determined with a reasonable amount of certainty that their exposure to the virus occurred in the workplace and was not community-acquired.

Can you file for worker’s compensation benefits in Colorado? Contact an experienced Colorado worker’s compensation attorney today to learn your rights!

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.

Can you File for Workers Compensation Benefits if You’ve Been Exposed to COVID-19 On-the-Job?

As of March 26, 2020, Colorado has not issued any order or legislation explicitly stating that healthcare professionals exposed to COVID-19 will be entitled to Workers Compensation benefits.

These cases are hard to prove. Each individual set of circumstances may be different. Contact a Colorado worker’s compensation attorney to discuss your rights. At Kaufman & Kaufman, we can give you advice and represent you in your case. Learn more!

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.

Eligibility for Worker’s Compensation After Exposure to COVID-19 On-the-Job

Were you exposed to COVID-19 on the job and later tested positive?

Was personal protective equipment missing in your workplace?

Are you having trouble paying your bills because of your illness?

According to the Department of Labor and Employment for Colorado, “regulation is imperatively necessary for the preservation of public health, safety, or welfare as ensuring operation of the workers’ compensation system is imperative to preserve the health of the citizens of Colorado.”

As reported cases of COVID-19 increase, it places a significant strain upon medical resources. Emergency rules are being promoted to increase access to telehealth services in order to assure injured workers maintain access to reasonable and necessary medical care while complying with physical distancing guidelines and mandates. COVID-19-related actions to promote physical distancing have disrupted workers’ ability to receive in-person care for their job-related injuries and illnesses. Continuity of care is essential to monitor the progress of recovery. Treatment delays impede recovery and may increase claims costs.

Eligible for Workers’ Compensation for COVID-19 Illness? Contact an Experienced Colorado Workers’ Comp Attorney!

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

Can I Get Telehealth Reimbursement?

You should utilize telehealth wherever medically appropriate. Telehealth appointments are specifically allowed for return to work evaluations of essential employees. An in-person examination will not be required where either the injured worker or medical provider objects to such an examination.

Have questions about reimbursement? Read more here!

Eligible for Workers’ Compensation for COVID-19 Illness? Contact an Experienced Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorney!

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

A Family Firm that will Fight for You!

We always help the little guy, whether it’s quick legal advice, tips, or if you take action on your behalf. We’d be happy to do everything we can to ensure your process is smooth. 

We understand every case is different! Our workers’ compensation attorneys in Colorado understand your frustrations and want to help you protect your family in uncertain times. Not sure when your next paycheck is coming? We can help ensure you get everything you’re owed and safeguard your family’s financial situation.

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.

Have Nothing to Fear Asking a Question!

Don’t fear asking our legal professionals a question. It just might clear up the misinformation you might get from the insurance company. Weeding through legal documents can be a lot to digest. Ask a professional at our firm! At Kaufman & Kaufman, LLC. there are never any legal fees involved unless we actually start handling your case on your behalf.

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.

When is the best time to hire an attorney?

You should hire an attorney when your case gets too complicated to handle on your own. For example, in any of these situations, you should contact a lawyer:

• Your employer denies your claim or you fail to receive your benefits promptly.
• Your employer's settlement offer doesn't cover all your lost wages or medical bills.
• Your medical issues prevent you from returning to your prior job, or from performing any work at all.
• You receive Social Security disability benefits.
• Your boss retaliates against you for filing a workers' comp claim. 
• You have a potential third-party claim.

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

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

How does the worker’s compensation benefit process begin?

1. Report the injury to your supervisor or employer immediately in writing;
2. Request to see a doctor and get a list of which doctors you’re allowed to see; and
3. Request and complete an employer’s first report of injury and or workers compensation claim form.

Until you report the injury and the claim form is returned to your employer, they're only under a limited obligation to provide benefits. A common mistake people make is waiting to report the injury until it becomes unbearable and they can no longer work.

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

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