The Colorado workers' compensation program is designed to provide benefits to help those who suffer a work-related injury or illness with the costs of their medical treatment as well as the financial burden of being unable to work. This type of claim is often filed after an employee has been injured in a workplace accident, but claims could also be made by workers who have become ill due to a toxic environment or other causes.
Psychological and pre-existing conditions may also qualify for benefits under the workers' compensation program. The nature of certain jobs could cause workers to develop stress disorders or depression, and performing some types of work could aggravate a condition that already existed. However, an injury must be work-related to qualify for benefits.
An injury is often considered to be work-related in nature because it occurred in the workplace. This could include the place where work is actually performed as well as other areas such as company cafeterias and parking lots. However, some injuries could qualify for benefits even if they occur elsewhere. Under some circumstances, an injury may be considered work-related if it occurred at an off-site company event.
While the negligence of the employer is usually not a factor in assessing a workers' compensation claim, the process may still be combative. An employer could claim that an injury is not work-related or may argue that the worker is exaggerating the severity of the injury or illness. An attorney with experience in workers' compensation cases is likely to be familiar with such situations and can advocate vigorously on behalf of an injured client when this type of tactic is employed. The attorney can also assist clients with the sometimes complex claims process to help ensure that all available benefits are pursued.
Source: FindLaw, "What Types of Injuries are Compensable Under Workers' Compensation? - See more at: http://injury.findlaw.com/workers-compensation/what-types-of-injuries-are-compensable-under-workers-compensation.html#sthash.oWWAQlru.dpuf", October 29, 2014
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