Common Workplace Injuries Covered by Workers' Compensation in Colorado
Colorado mandates that all employers must have no-fault workers’ compensation insurance coverage. If you are hurt on the job, you have the right to file for workers’ benefits. It is an important level of protection for employees in our state. Unfortunately, tens of thousands of people are hurt on the job in Colorado each year. Here, our Denver workers’ comp lawyer discusses the most common workplace injuries that are covered by workers’ compensation insurance in Colorado.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are one of the most common—and, potentially, most serious—workplace injuries in Colorado. A study cited by the National Library of Medicine found that as many as one in four TBIs suffered in the U.S. happen in the workplace. Brain injuries can happen because of falls, being struck by an object, machinery accidents, and motor vehicle collisions. A TBI can be covered by workers’ compensation insurance in Colorado. All brain injuries require immediate medical attention. The prognosis and recovery time can vary widely.
Back problems are also relatively common workplace injuries. These injuries can happen in many different ways—from heavy lifting to awkward movements to fall accidents. Some back injuries are fundamentally muscle strains. Other back injuries may be even more severe, such as a herniated disc or a fractured vertebrae. Symptoms include persistent pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. A back injury can be covered by workers’ comp insurance in Colorado.
Sprains and strains are common soft tissue injuries in the workplace. Sprains involve ligaments, such as those centered on the ankles, wrists, and knees. Sprains could happen due to sudden twisting or turning motions. In contrast, strains affect muscles or tendons. They are more likely to happen from overexertion or repetitive motions. A sprain/strain that requires professional medical care can be covered by workers’ comp in Colorado.
Broken bones, or fractures, occur in the workplace due to falls, direct impacts, or even persistent overuse. Some of the most common broken bones in the work in Colorado include arms, legs, and ribs. For most people, the symptoms are immediate pain, swelling, and inability to use the injured area. Treatment should include prompt medical attention. A worker may need to have the area immobilized with a cast or a splint. With the most serious broken bone injuries, surgery may be needed.
Burns in the workplace can occur from fire, chemicals, electricity, or hot surfaces. These injuries vary from minor superficial burns to severe deep tissue damage. Symptoms include redness, blistering, and, in serious cases, charring of the skin. Second-degree burn injuries and third-degree burn injuries require immediate medical care. In Colorado, you can seek workers’ comp benefits for a job-related burn injury.
Chemical exposure injuries happen due to contact with hazardous substances, including gas, solvents, and acids. These injuries can affect the skin, eyes, or respiratory system. At its worst, exposure to a toxic substance can cause catastrophic or even life-threatening harm to a worker. You can file a workers’ comp claim for harm caused by a chemical exposure in Colorado.
Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs)
Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) are caused by repetitive movements or prolonged periods in a fixed position. Common in office settings, RSIs affect muscles, nerves, and tendons, leading to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis. Symptoms include pain, tingling, and loss of strength. You may also hear this type of injury referred to as cumulative trauma. In Colorado, RSIs can be covered by workers' comp. However, these cases can be more complicated. The injured worker must prove that their cumulative trauma injury occurred within the course and scope of their employment. Comprehensive medical records are key in these cases.
Spinal cord damage in the workplace can result from severe trauma, such as falls or vehicle accidents. This injury can lead to partial or complete paralysis. There is no such thing as a “minor” spinal cord injury. Any level of spinal cord damage is a major medical emergency. A person who suffered any trauma to the spinal cord needs emergency medical care. For severe injuries, workers’ comp in Colorado may provide permanent disability benefits. An attorney can help you and your family secure the absolute maximum financial support.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Denver Workers’ Comp Attorney
At The Law Offices of W. Dan Mahoney, P.C., our Colorado workers’ compensation lawyer goes above and beyond to deliver top-tier legal representation. Contact our law firm right away for a free consultation. With a legal office in Denver, we handle workers’ comp claims throughout the entire region, including in Denver County, Denver County, Jefferson County, and Arapahoe County.
