Workers' Compensation Claims We Handle
Workers’ compensation law in Colorado is designed to cover almost any type of workplace accident or injury, but every case has unique circumstances. At Bell & Pollock, our Denver workers’ compensation attorneys have represented injured employees across countless industries, from construction and trucking to office administration and healthcare. No matter what kind of work you do, if you’ve been injured on the job in Denver, you deserve to understand your rights and secure the benefits you are entitled to.
Here are some of the most common types of workers’ comp claims we handle:
- Repetitive motion injuries: Some injuries develop slowly over time, rather than in a single incident. Constant lifting, bending, typing, or operating vibrating tools can cause conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or chronic joint pain. These are often disputed by insurers because they aren’t tied to one obvious accident, making legal representation critical.
- Vehicle accidents: Workers who drive for a living, such as delivery drivers, utility workers, or sales professionals, are at risk of being involved in crashes while on the job. These accidents often involve workers’ comp claims and, in some cases, additional third-party lawsuits against negligent drivers.
- Falling objects: Denver construction sites, warehouses, and retail stores all present risks of falling tools, equipment, or merchandise. Even a small object dropped from a height can cause a serious head or spinal injury, especially if safety protocols are ignored.
- Machine injuries: Industrial and factory employees work around dangerous equipment every day. Malfunctions, lack of proper safety guards, or momentary lapses in procedure can lead to crushing injuries, amputations, or severe lacerations. These are some of the most catastrophic workplace accidents we see in Denver.
- Slip and fall accidents: Slippery floors, cluttered walkways, and icy outdoor conditions during Denver’s winters often cause falls at work. These accidents may seem minor at first but can result in broken bones, back injuries, or head trauma that keep employees out of work for months.
- Other workplace accidents: Fires, explosions, electrical accidents, exposure to toxic chemicals, and even workplace violence may qualify for workers’ comp coverage. These less common but extremely serious cases highlight why it is so important to have an attorney who understands how to handle unusual or contested claims.
No matter how your injury occurred, Bell & Pollock’s Denver workers’ compensation attorneys are here to guide you through the process, protect your rights, and pursue every available benefit.
Common Injuries in Denver Workers' Compensation Claims
Workplace injuries can range from relatively minor conditions to life-altering harm that prevents a person from ever working again. In Denver, where employees work across industries as diverse as construction, oil and gas, retail, healthcare, and office administration, the types of injuries we see in workers’ comp cases are wide-ranging. Our firm has extensive experience representing clients with injuries including:
- Back and neck injuries: Heavy lifting, repetitive movements, or sudden accidents can result in muscle strains, herniated discs, or chronic pain. These injuries may not be immediately visible on diagnostic tests, which makes it easier for insurers to challenge them. Our attorneys know how to present the medical evidence needed to secure benefits.
- Fractures and broken bones: Whether from a slip and fall, falling object, or machinery accident, fractures can be extremely painful and often require surgical intervention. Complications like infection or improper healing can prolong recovery, keeping workers sidelined for longer than expected.
- Head and brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are some of the most serious workplace injuries. Even a mild concussion can lead to dizziness, headaches, or memory problems, while severe TBIs may cause long-term cognitive impairments. Denver workers who suffer head trauma often require extended rehabilitation and support.
- Spinal cord injuries: Severe workplace accidents, especially falls from height or vehicle collisions, can damage the spinal cord. These injuries may result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care and adaptive support. Compensation for these cases must consider not only medical treatment but also future living expenses and loss of independence.
- Burn injuries: Fires, chemical exposure, or electrical accidents at work can leave employees with painful burns, permanent scars, and even nerve damage. Burn victims often need multiple surgeries, skin grafts, and psychological support for trauma related to their injuries.
- Amputations: Industrial accidents involving machinery or vehicle crashes may lead to the loss of fingers, hands, arms, or legs. Amputation injuries are devastating, requiring prosthetics, rehabilitation, and ongoing support. These cases underscore the importance of maximizing benefits with the help of a Denver workers’ compensation attorney.
- Repetitive stress injuries: Injuries that develop over time, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or chronic joint pain, can prevent workers from performing even basic job tasks. Because they lack a single “accident date,” insurance companies often challenge these claims, making legal representation vital to proving work-related causation.
These injuries not only cause physical pain but also create financial stress and uncertainty about the future. Many injured workers cannot return to their old jobs, leaving them worried about supporting their families. At Bell & Pollock, our role as Denver workers’ compensation attorneys is to ensure you get the treatment, wage replacement, and long-term support you need to move forward.
Determining Liability in Denver Workers' Compensation Claims
Workers’ compensation in Colorado operates under a no-fault system, meaning that you do not need to prove your employer was negligent in order to qualify for benefits. If you were injured while performing work-related duties in Denver, you are generally entitled to coverage regardless of who caused the accident. This system is meant to provide quick access to medical care and wage replacement for injured workers.
However, liability issues still play an important role, and understanding them can be the difference between a successful claim and a denied one. Some key considerations include:
- Employer responsibility: Employers in Denver are legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If your employer fails to maintain coverage, you may have the right to pursue additional legal remedies outside of the workers’ comp system. In these cases, a Denver workers’ compensation attorney can guide you in holding your employer accountable.
- Third-party liability: Not all workplace injuries are solely the responsibility of the employer. For example:
- If you are injured in a vehicle crash caused by another driver while making a delivery.
- If defective machinery or tools cause serious harm.
- If a subcontractor’s negligence leads to unsafe conditions.
In these cases, you may be able to pursue a workers’ comp claim for benefits and a third-party personal injury lawsuit for additional compensation.
- Employer disputes: Even though workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, some employers and insurers attempt to deny claims by arguing:
- The injury did not occur at work.
- The injury was caused by a pre-existing condition.
- The employee engaged in misconduct that caused the accident.
These disputes can leave injured workers without benefits unless they fight back with legal representation.
At Bell & Pollock, our attorneys know how to investigate contested claims, gather the evidence needed to establish workplace causation, and counter employer or insurer arguments. We’ve successfully represented countless Denver workers whose claims were initially challenged, ensuring they received the benefits they were entitled to.
Workers’ Compensation Deadlines and Process in Colorado
Workers’ compensation benefits in Colorado are not automatic. To receive them, you must follow strict rules and meet deadlines. Missing even a single step could result in your claim being delayed or denied. That’s why it is so important to consult with a knowledgeable Denver workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible after an accident.
Reporting Deadlines
- Notify your employer immediately: Colorado law requires you to report your injury in writing within four days of the accident. Even if you tell a supervisor verbally, written notice is essential to protect your rights.
- Employer’s obligation: Once notified, your employer must report the injury to its insurance carrier within 10 days. If they fail to do so, it can delay your benefits.
Filing Deadlines
- Standard claim deadline: You generally have two years from the date of your injury (or from the date you discovered your injury was work-related) to file a claim with the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation.
- Occupational disease claims: For illnesses or injuries that develop over time, like repetitive stress injuries, asbestos exposure, or chemical-related conditions, the two-year window usually begins when you first became aware of the connection to your job.
- Statute of limitations concerns: Missing the deadline may forfeit your right to benefits, though certain exceptions may apply. An attorney can help determine if you still qualify.
The Workers’ Compensation Process in Colorado
- Report the injury to your employer in writing right away.
- Seek medical treatment from an employer-approved doctor.
- The employer submits a report to the workers’ comp insurance carrier.
- The insurance company investigates and issues a decision to accept or deny your claim.
- Benefits begin if the claim is approved. If denied, you may appeal through a formal hearing process.
Because each step involves paperwork, deadlines, and potential disputes, many workers benefit from hiring a Denver workers’ comp lawyer early in the process. Having legal guidance helps ensure nothing is missed and protects you against insurance tactics designed to minimize your benefits.
What to Do If Your Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied
Receiving a denial letter after filing a workers’ comp claim can feel like a devastating setback, especially when you’re already dealing with medical bills and time away from work. But a denial does not mean the end of the road. With the help of an experienced Denver workers’ compensation attorney, you can appeal and fight for the benefits you deserve.
Common Reasons Claims Are Denied
- The insurer claims the injury was not work-related.
- The injury was not reported within the four-day deadline.
- The employer argues the injury resulted from employee misconduct or a pre-existing condition.
- There is a dispute over whether the injury is severe enough to require time off work.
- The insurance company downplays the medical evidence or denies necessary treatment.
Steps to Take After a Denial
- Carefully review the denial letter: The insurance company must state its reason for denial. This is the starting point for your appeal.
- Consult an attorney immediately: Appeals are subject to strict timelines. A Denver workers’ comp lawyer ensures your appeal is filed correctly and on time.
- File an Application for Hearing: This formal request begins the appeal process with the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation.
- Gather supporting evidence: Medical records, expert opinions, witness statements, and workplace safety reports can strengthen your appeal.
- Prepare for the hearing: Your attorney will present your case before an administrative law judge, cross-examining witnesses and challenging the insurer’s evidence.
How Bell & Pollock Can Help
At Bell & Pollock, we have decades of experience helping Denver workers overturn denied claims. We know how insurers operate, and we understand the strategies they use to minimize payouts. Our attorneys handle every step of the appeals process, ensuring your rights are protected and that you have the strongest case possible.
A denial is not the end. With the right legal help, it can be the beginning of a successful fight for the workers’ comp benefits you deserve.
How Can Bell & Pollock Help With Your Denver Workers' Compensation Claim?
After a workplace accident, the workers’ compensation system in Denver can feel like an obstacle course. Between filing deadlines, employer disputes, and insurance company pushback, many injured workers feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. That is where Bell & Pollock makes the difference. As dedicated Denver workers’ compensation attorneys, we know how to navigate the process and protect your rights from day one.
Our role begins with a careful investigation of your accident. We gather the evidence that can make or break your claim, including workplace safety records, eyewitness accounts, and documentation of company policies. We review your medical evaluations, ensure that your treatment is properly documented, and push back if the insurance company tries to minimize the seriousness of your injuries. By building a strong foundation early, we give your case the best chance for success.
We also take on the burden of dealing with your employer and their insurance provider. This means you never have to worry about saying the wrong thing to an adjuster or being pressured into accepting less than you deserve. Our attorneys handle every communication, allowing you to focus on recovery while we fight on your behalf.
At Bell & Pollock, we also think long term. Workers’ comp isn’t just about covering your first hospital visit. It should also provide for the rehabilitation, therapy, and wage replacement you need in the months and years ahead. Our attorneys calculate the full value of your claim, including potential future medical expenses and loss of earning capacity, to ensure nothing is left on the table. And if your claim is denied, you can trust that we will appeal aggressively, presenting evidence before an administrative law judge and fighting until justice is served.
What Compensation Is Available After a Workplace Accident?
Workers in Denver who are injured on the job may be entitled to several types of benefits under Colorado law. Unfortunately, insurance companies often try to limit or undercut what employees receive, which is why having a skilled Denver workers’ compensation attorney is essential. Common forms of compensation include:
- Medical care: Coverage for all necessary treatment, including emergency room visits, surgeries, doctor appointments, medications, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation.
- Temporary disability benefits: Wage replacement for workers who are unable to return to their job while recovering from their injuries.
- Permanent disability benefits: Compensation for lasting impairments that result in chronic pain, reduced mobility, or conditions like paralysis that prevent full recovery.
- Vocational rehabilitation benefits: Support for workers who cannot return to their previous job. This may include retraining, education programs, or job placement assistance.
- Death benefits: Financial support for families who lose a loved one in a workplace accident, including funeral and burial expenses as well as ongoing income replacement for dependents.
At Bell & Pollock, we carefully evaluate every case to ensure our clients in Denver receive every category of compensation they are entitled to. Our mission is to hold insurers accountable and provide injured workers with the financial support they need to rebuild their lives.
Why Choose Bell & Pollock?
When you are facing a workers’ compensation claim in Denver, choosing the right attorney can mean the difference between struggling to get by and securing the full benefits you need. At Bell & Pollock, we have built our reputation on standing up for injury victims across Colorado. Our decades of experience give us an unmatched understanding of how the system works and how insurers try to exploit it to their advantage. We have represented workers from nearly every industry, from construction and manufacturing to healthcare and office environments, and we know how to handle the unique challenges of each case.
Our track record speaks for itself. In auto accident cases, we have recovered millions of dollars for our clients, holding negligent drivers and large insurance companies accountable. The same determination and skill that earned those results drives our work in workers’ compensation cases. We prepare every claim as if it will go to trial, sending a clear message to insurance companies that we are ready to fight for the maximum recovery our clients deserve.
But what truly sets us apart is our commitment to our clients. At Bell & Pollock, we understand that every case represents a person’s livelihood, health, and family security. We take the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide compassionate support while aggressively pursuing justice. With access to investigators, medical experts, and industry specialists, we have the resources needed to match and even exceed the legal firepower of the insurance companies we go up against.
When your future is on the line, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a team that treats your case like it is their own. Bell & Pollock is that team. We are the Denver workers’ compensation attorneys trusted to fight for injured workers and their families.
Additional Legal Services
At Bell & Pollock, we know that serious injuries can happen in many different situations, not just in the workplace. That’s why our firm provides comprehensive personal injury representation across Denver and Colorado. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to negligence, our team is ready to stand by your side and fight for justice. In addition to workers’ compensation cases, we also represent clients in:
- Car Accidents – Protecting the rights of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians hurt in vehicle collisions across Denver.
- Motorcycle Accidents – Advocating for riders who often suffer the most severe injuries in crashes with larger vehicles.
- Truck Accidents – Handling complex claims involving commercial trucks, semi-trucks, and 18-wheelers where the stakes are high.
- Premises Liability – Representing victims of slip-and-falls, unsafe property conditions, and negligent security incidents.
- Nursing Home Abuse – Seeking justice for elderly and vulnerable residents subjected to neglect or mistreatment.
- And more – Including wrongful death, catastrophic injury, and drunk driving accident claims.
No matter the circumstances, Bell & Pollock’s experienced attorneys are committed to delivering strong advocacy, compassionate service, and proven results for injury victims throughout Denver.
Contact Bell & Pollock for Your Denver Workers' Compensation Claim
If you have been hurt on the job in Denver, the clock is already ticking. Workers’ compensation claims are subject to strict deadlines, and insurance companies often begin working against your claim as soon as the accident is reported. The sooner you reach out to Bell & Pollock, the sooner we can step in to preserve evidence, build your case, and shield you from insurance company tactics.
We offer free consultations so you can speak directly with an experienced Denver workers’ compensation attorney and get answers to your questions without any financial risk. You will owe us nothing upfront, because we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case. From the first phone call to the final resolution, our team provides the guidance, advocacy, and support you need to move forward.
At Bell & Pollock, we know how much is at stake. A workplace injury can disrupt your income, your health, and your ability to provide for your family. Our mission is to restore stability, secure the benefits you deserve, and give you the confidence to face the future.
Call us today or connect with us online to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights and reclaiming your life after a workplace accident in Denver.
