Workers' Compensation: Colorado

Federal law and guidance on this subject should be reviewed together with this section.

Author: Daniel O'Brien, Fisher Phillips.

Summary

• All Colorado employers are required to display a poster in the workplace. See Notice Requirements.
• All Colorado employers with at least one employee must carry workers' compensation insurance unless they are specifically exempted. See Covered Employers.
• Most employees are covered by workers' compensation insurance, with some notable exceptions that are unique to Colorado. See Covered Employees.
• The Colorado workers' compensation system is a no-fault system. Both work-related injuries and occupational illnesses are compensable under the workers' compensation statute. See Compensable Injuries.
• Employers may not be liable for certain injuries under specific circumstances. See Employer Defenses to Workers' Compensation Claims.
• Medical expenses are paid under workers' compensation. The employer has the right to select the medical provider for injured employees. See Medical Benefits and Communication with Healthcare Providers.
• Workers' compensation pays benefits according to the type of disability incurred. See Compensable Injuries
• The amount of disability benefit paid is calculated according to the average weekly wage. See Calculating Benefits.
• Employers may cover advance mileage expenses for travel that is reasonably necessary and related to obtaining compensable treatment, supplies or services. See Advance Mileage Expenses.
• If an employee ignores safety rules, his or her employer can argue against the validity of the claim and ultimately, the claim may be denied. See Safety.
• Employees are required to report injuries within a specified time. See Claims Procedure.
• Employers must follow strict disclosure and access rules regarding employee mental health records. See Recordkeeping.