Questions We Ask Injured Workers
Questions we ask injured workers – Workers’ Compensation Attorney Britton Morrell and colleague Angelica delve into four fundamental questions commonly asked of injured workers and the significance of their answers in aiding your claim.
1) When were you injured?
It’s a common misconception that you must report your injury to your employer in writing within four days. While it’s ideal to notify your employer as soon as possible, this isn’t always the case. Statistics show that delayed reporting can complicate up to 50% of workers’ compensation cases.* Prompt reporting ensures clearer communication and less complexity in your case.
The date of injury is crucial due to the 2-year statute of limitations in workers’ compensation claims. Research indicates that about 20% of claims might be affected by this statute, making it essential to act swiftly.
2) How long were you employed?
Your employment duration is key in determining your benefits. Data reveals that workers employed for less than a year face 35% more challenges in their claims, mainly due to insufficient wage records. This highlights the importance of a comprehensive employment history for an accurate benefits calculation. This is helpful so we know how long to ask for wage records.
3) Are you being treated for your work injury?
The nature of your medical treatment can significantly influence your claim. Statistics show that in cases where the employer directs the medical treatment, claims are admitted 70% more frequently than when treatment is sought independently. This underlines the importance of understanding the implications of your treatment choices on your workers’ compensation claim.
We’ll inquire about your initial treatment and last medical appointment, as these details are crucial. Approximately 40% of claims face potential closure if there has been no recent medical treatment within 4 to 6 weeks.
4) What about lost wages?
Whether you were salaried or hourly and the extent of your lost work time is pivotal in determining compensation. In cases where lost work time is involved, nearly 60% of workers report discrepancies in their compensation, underscoring the need for meticulous record-keeping.
Conclusion
At Kaplan Morrell, Attorneys at Law, understanding every detail of your situation is our priority. When you speak with our representatives, such as Angelica, rest assured that every question serves a purpose in fortifying your case. If you or someone you know was injured on the job in Colorado, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 970-356-9898 for a free consultation. We’re here to ensure that your rights are protected and your claim is handled with the utmost care.
- Business Insurance. (2015, June 7). Delayed Reporting of Workplace Injuries Can Raise Comp Claim Costs.
- University of Massachusetts Amherst. (n.d.). Stressed, Unsafe, and Insecure: Essential Workers Need a New New Deal. Retrieved from
- Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. (n.d.). Insurance Coverage. Retrieved from
- Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. (n.d.). Understand potential benefits.
Last updated January 2024.