Colorado Workers’ Compensation for Injured Hotel Workers

Learn how to secure maximum workers’ comp benefits after an injury working at a Denver hotel

With nearly 4,500 hotels in Colorado employing more than 63,000 workers, the state’s hotel industry has been prospering in recent years. In fact, in 2023, the industry is expected to generate a whopping $815 million in state and local tax revenues, a $116 million increase from 2020.

Despite these positive economic signs for the industry and its workers, hotel jobs aren’t without risks. Each year, hotel workers are exposed to a number of hazards that lead to serious injuries, often requiring extensive medical treatment and time off work. 

Fortunately, most Colorado hotel workers qualify for workers’ compensation after an on-the-job injury or illness, which provides crucial financial assistance during their recoveries.

What injuries are covered under workers’ comp?

Workers’ comp covers a wide array of injuries and conditions, provided that they occurred within the “course and scope” of employment. This includes an acute, one-time injury, a worsened pre-existing condition, or an occupational disease.

• One-time injuries. As long as you were performing tasks that were part of your job duties when an accident occurred that led to an injury, you should be covered under workers’ comp.
• Pre-existing conditions. In addition to injuries that occur directly as a result of work tasks, workers’ comp also often covers injuries that are exacerbated by pre-existing conditions. For example, if you had a prior knee injury and it worsened due to the activities you performed at work, you may be eligible for benefits.
• Occupational diseases and illnesses. These are conditions that you acquire as a result of repetitive tasks or harmful substances or elements in your work environment over a period of time. Examples include long-term exposure to toxic chemicals resulting in illnesses like mesothelioma or repetitive strain injuries from continuous physical tasks.

Remember that to qualify for benefits, you must be able to prove that your injury, disease or illness is directly related to your job duties or environment. Often, this can be more challenging with pre-existing conditions and occupational diseases, so it’s best to consult with an attorney to ensure you have all the necessary evidence to support your claim.

What workers’ comp benefits are injured hotel workers entitled to?

Injured hotel workers who qualify for workers’ compensation can typically expect to receive a range of benefits, although the specifics will vary depending on the nature and severity of the injury. Here are some common types of benefits:

• Medical benefits. All necessary medical treatment related to the work injury should be covered. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, and even transportation costs to medical appointments.
• Temporary disability benefits. If an injured worker is unable to work for a temporary period while they recover, they may receive a portion of their wages until they’re cleared to return to work. 
• Permanent disability benefits. If the injury results in permanent impairment that prevents a worker from ever returning to work, they may be eligible for long-term wage loss benefits or a lump-sum payment.
• Vocational rehabilitation. If the injury prevents a worker from returning to their previous job, they may be entitled to retraining or education to help them re-enter the workforce in a different capacity.
• Death benefits. In tragic cases where a work-related injury leads to death, the worker’s dependents may be eligible for death benefits, which can include compensation for funeral costs and financial support due to lost income.

What else do I need to do to ensure a successful workers’ comp claim?

In addition to notifying your employer within 10 days of a work-related injury or the discovery of a work-related disease or illness, you’ll also want to take the following steps:

1. Seek immediate medical attention. It’s essential to get medical help as soon as possible to make it easier to prove that your injury is work-related. However, it’s equally important to seek care from an employer-approved medical provider. The reason for this is twofold:
   • a. Compliance with workers’ comp rules. Seeing an employer-approved physician is generally required for your medical treatment and procedures to be covered under workers’ comp.
   • b. Medical documentation. An employer-approved doctor will provide the necessary medical documentation you’ll need to support your claim. This documentation will detail the extent of your injuries, the proposed treatment plan, and the expected time away from work.
2. Follow all medical advice and treatment plans. Be sure to comply with all the medical advice, prescriptions, and treatment plans provided by your medical practitioner. Any non-compliance can be a reason for a denied claim.
3. Keep records. Always keep any medical records, bills, and any correspondence with your employer or the insurance company. These could be essential in the event that your claim is challenged.
4. Consult an attorney. If your claim is denied or you face issues with your employer or their insurance company, consult an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to ensure your rights are protected.

By carefully following these steps, you can significantly improve the chances of your workers’ comp claim being accepted and receiving the benefits you’re entitled to.