Every occupation carries a certain amount of risk. Some employees report to work each day knowing that they must follow all safety procedures or they could find themselves seriously injured. Even those who work in less threatening environments know that accidents can happen at time.
If workers are injured on the job in Colorado, they can rely on the workers' compensation system to provide them with the income they need while they are out of work. However, there are very strict requirements in place in order to receive these benefits, and some of these rules may have a significant impact on employees who have been injured in workplace accidents.
One of the more unique aspects of the workers' compensation system concerns the type of treatment that these workers will receive. Under these laws, injured workers must receive treatment from a physician appointed by their employer in order to have their medical expenses covered. If workers go to their own personal physician instead, they could be forced to pay these costs. Workers are only allowed to see their own doctors if the employer has not designated a medical provider.
Some have questioned the type of care administered by physicians who have been selected by employers. There is a conflict between the goals of the employer and those of the employee. Employers want their workers back on the job as soon as possible, while workers want to receive the treatment that they need to return to health, no matter how long it takes for this to happen. If the care that is provided does not adequately address long-term health concerns, it could place the employees at risk for future injuries.
If you are injured while working, you must notify your employer of the injuries as soon as possible. This will help you comply with the various requirements in place and allow you to remain eligible for workers' compensation benefits. These benefits will enable you to pay your medical expenses while you are out of work recovering from your injuries.
You may have several questions about the process, and the steps that you must follow at this time. Once you have received treatment for your injuries, speak to an experienced workers' compensation attorney about your specific situation. An attorney can help you receive the treatment you need to return back to work, and protect your rights throughout the entire process. This will prevent you from being forced back on the job before your injuries have had a chance to heal.