Because Colorado has what is called a “no-fault” system, it makes no difference who is to blame for a workplace accident that causes you injuries. That means that you could have been harmed because your boss was careless, or because a co-worker failed to follow company procedures. Perhaps you were responsible for your own injury. Or maybe there was no one to blame, and an accident was simply an accident. The State of Colorado says that you’re entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits, so long as your situation meets the proscribed eligibility requirements. At the same time, it means that you can’t sue your employer because of your injury.
At the law office of Mary E. Jeffers, our experienced Colorado work accident attorneys understand the complicated collection of laws and procedures that make up the state’s workers’ compensation system. When you’ve been injured on the job or you’ve become ill because you were exposed to a toxic substance at work, it’s only natural to have questions – both medical and legal. You want to know what your rights are, and you want to know that you’ve taken every opportunity to provide not only for yourself, but for the family members who depend on you. The veteran workers’ compensation attorneys at the law office of Mary E. Jeffers are sensitive to those needs. We’re also sensitive to the fact that a workplace injury can be a traumatic experience. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing you with the legal insight you need to ensure that you receive the maximum benefits to which you’re entitled.
Although you cannot sue your employer for an injury you suffer on the job, there may be circumstances in which you can sue a third party who is responsible for injuring you. For instance, if your job involves operating machinery and you were injured because the equipment was defective in some way, you might be able to sue the manufacturer of the item. Another example of a potential third-party liability: You drive a vehicle for your employer and were on the road to make a delivery. If your vehicle is struck by another, causing you injury, the driver of that vehicle would be considered a third party. In such a situation, the advice of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your rights and pursue additional compensation.
When considering Colorado’s no-fault approach to workers’ compensation, it is important to know that there may be circumstances under which you will not be entitled to receive the maximum benefits. This can occur if you were harmed because you knowingly violated safety rules your employer has specified. If screening tests reveal that you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs (even drugs that your doctor prescribed) when you were injured, your benefits also can be reduced. In cases involving safety violations or impairment by drugs or alcohol, injured workers can lose up to half of their benefits – even if the injury results in permanent physical damage. In the event that your employer’s insurance company has alleged such circumstances and reduced your workers’ compensation benefits, you will want to seek the advice of a qualified workers’ compensation attorney.
Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys at the law office of Mary E. Jeffers know how upsetting it can be to suffer an injury on the job. We also understand that it can be frustrating and frightening to find yourself unable to work, especially if you have loved ones who rely on you for financial support. If your workers’ compensation benefits have been reduced, or if you question any aspects of your workers’ compensation claim, contact our firm to request a free consultation. Our no-fault work injury lawyers offer you the legal know-how and capability needed to ensure that your rights are respected. Contact the law office of Mary E. Jeffers.
(303) 573-7948 or (888) 778-6685
