What Injuries Are Covered Under Colorado Workers’ Compensation?
Workplace injuries can have a profound impact on your physical health, financial stability, and overall quality of life. If you’ve been injured on the job in Colorado, understanding what injuries are covered under workers’ compensation laws is crucial to securing the benefits you need for recovery. Workers’ compensation is designed to protect employees by providing medical care, wage replacement, and other benefits for job-related injuries and illnesses — but not all injuries automatically qualify for coverage. At Boesen Law, our workers’ compensation lawyers know how challenging it can be to navigate the system while dealing with the aftermath of an injury.
What Types of Injuries Are Covered Under Colorado Workers’ Compensation?
Colorado law requires employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover employees injured on the job. The Colorado Workers’ Compensation Act outlines that only injuries arising out of and occurring in the course of employment are eligible for benefits (C.R.S. § 8-41-301(1)(b)). This means the injury must be directly related to your job duties and happen while performing work-related tasks.
Understanding which types of injuries are covered can help you determine if you have a valid claim.
1. Acute Injuries from Workplace Accidents
Acute injuries occur suddenly due to an unexpected workplace accident. These injuries are among the most common workers’ compensation claims and often involve visible trauma or immediate pain.
Examples include:
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Machinery accidents
- Burns from chemicals or fire
- Electrical shocks
- Falling objects
- Cuts and lacerations
These injuries range from minor to severe, potentially requiring emergency medical care, surgery, and ongoing rehabilitation. In settings with heavy machinery, injuries often result in more serious trauma that must be compensated.
2. Cumulative Trauma & Repetitive Stress Injuries
Not all workplace injuries happen instantly. Some develop gradually from repetitive physical tasks over weeks, months, or even years. These injuries can be harder to prove but are still eligible for workers’ compensation benefits with proper medical evidence.
Common repetitive stress injuries include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome from typing or assembly line work
- Tendonitis from repetitive lifting
- Chronic back pain from prolonged standing or heavy lifting
- Shoulder and neck injuries from overhead work
3. Occupational Illnesses & Exposure-Related Injuries
Workers who are regularly exposed to hazardous chemicals, toxic substances, or dangerous environments may suffer from long-term health problems. These conditions may not present symptoms immediately but can cause severe, life-altering illnesses over time.
Examples include:
- Respiratory diseases from inhaling asbestos, silica dust, or fumes
- Hearing loss from prolonged exposure to loud noise
- Skin conditions from chemical exposure
- Occupational cancers linked to workplace toxins
Proving occupational illnesses can be complex, especially if symptoms develop years after exposure. Medical records, environmental testing, and expert testimony are often required to strengthen these claims.
4. Offsite Work-Related Injuries
Workers’ compensation coverage isn’t limited to injuries sustained at the primary worksite. If you’re performing job-related duties at another location, injuries sustained offsite may still be covered.
Examples include:
- Delivery drivers injured in car accidents
- Construction workers at various job sites
- Remote employees injured while performing assigned work tasks
To qualify, the injury must occur during the course of employment and not during personal errands or breaks. Since these claims can be difficult to prove, your workers’ compensation attorney at Boesen Law will provide valuable support to establish viability.
What Types of Injuries Are NOT Covered by Workers’ Compensation?
While Colorado workers’ compensation laws are designed to cover most work-related injuries, certain circumstances can disqualify claims. Knowing what isn’t covered can help you avoid unnecessary delays or denials.
1. Injuries Not Related to Work Duties
If your injury occurred during personal activities unrelated to your job duties, workers’ compensation will not cover the claim.
Examples include:
- Commuting to and from work (unless in a company vehicle)
- Injuries during lunch breaks offsite
- Horseplay or fighting with coworkers
- Running personal errands during work hours
2. Injuries Due to Employee Misconduct
Workers’ compensation laws protect employees, but they also have limits. If your injury occurred due to intoxication, drug use, or reckless behavior, your claim may be denied.
According to C.R.S. § 8-42-112(1), benefits can be reduced or denied if intoxication or willful misconduct contributed to the injury.
3. Minor Injuries That Don’t Require Medical Care
Minor cuts, bruises, or soreness that do not require medical treatment or time off work typically aren’t covered. However, if these injuries worsen or require medical care later on, they may become compensable.
How to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Colorado
Filing a workers’ compensation claim involves several critical steps. Any mistakes or missed deadlines could result in delays or denials.
Steps to Follow:
- Report the injury to your employer – You must notify your employer in writing within four days of the injury (C.R.S. § 8-43-102). Delays in reporting may impact your eligibility for benefits.
- Seek medical treatment – Your employer will provide a list of designated medical providers. You must choose one from this list to receive workers’ compensation coverage.
- Employer’s report of injury – Your employer must report your injury to their insurance company within 10 days.
- Follow medical treatment plans – Attend all medical appointments and follow your treatment plan closely.
- Appeal denied claims – If your claim is denied, you can request a hearing with the Division of Workers’ Compensation.
Contact Boesen Law for Experienced Workers’ Compensation Representation
At Boesen Law, we understand the challenges injured workers face and are committed to protecting your rights. Our team will handle every aspect of your claim, from filing paperwork to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you at hearings. With decades of experience serving communities across Colorado, we have a proven track record of helping injured workers secure the benefits they deserve. You can contact us today for a consultation.
