Personal injury cases arise when someone gets injured due to someone else’s act of negligence or intentional wrongdoing. The injured party can file a personal injury claim against the responsible party when an injury occurs. In doing so, the injured party can pursue compensation for their injuries. When determining what amount of compensation the injured party will receive, there are a variety of factors that may be relevant, one of which is the severity of the injuries suffered. Call a personal injury lawyer right away if someone’s negligent actions have injured you.

Severe Injuries May Lead to Greater Payouts

Generally, there is a correlation between the severity of injuries sustained and the value of a personal injury claim. This is because severe injuries require more medical attention and extended recovery periods, resulting in more significant financial and emotional damages. Spine and brain injuries are considered to be some of the most serious kinds of injuries in personal injury claims since these can result in long-term physical limitations that can impact the injured party for the rest of their lives. Spine injuries can result in paralysis or chronic pain, while brain injuries can cause cognitive impairments and lifelong disabilities.

Due to the high level of medical attention and prolonged rehabilitation required for these injuries, it is not uncommon for significant compensation to be awarded to those who have sustained either a spine injury, brain injury, or both. This is because the value of the personal injury claim considers both direct harm, like the cost of medical treatment and rehab, and indirect harm, like lost wages and reduced future earning capacity.

Car accidents are one of the leading causes of injuries nationwide and worldwide. The severity of injuries largely depends on various factors, like the speed of the vehicle(s) involved, the location and direction of the collision, and the use of safety belts and airbags. Unfortunately, organ damage can occur during car accidents and may affect different parts of the body, which can result in chronic or life-long medical problems. If you have suffered organ damage in a car accident, do not hesitate to call a personal injury attorney to ensure you can pursue any compensation that may be entitled to you.

Which Organs Can Be Damaged in a Car Accident?

Here are some of the most vulnerable organs which can be injured in a car accident, including:

• Brain injury – One of the most severe injuries in car accidents is brain injuries, which can be caused by a severe head injury, bruising, swelling, or bleeding in the brain. Brain injury symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening and include headaches, dizziness, memory loss, and personality changes.
• Chest injury – Protected by your chest, otherwise known as the thorax, your heart can suffer injuries during a car accident, especially if the thorax is subjected to blunt force trauma from the accident. Your chest is exceptionally vulnerable. As a result, the impact of a seatbelt or steering wheel during a car can lead to internal bleeding and injuries to the heart and lungs. These injuries can be life-threatening.
• Abdominal injury – Car accidents can lead to internal damage in the abdominal region, resulting in injury to critical structures such as the internal organs. Liver, kidney, and spleen injuries can result in significant blood loss and internal bleeding. Such injuries should be considered an emergency and thus require immediate medical attention.
• Spinal cord injury – Car accidents can cause significant force when the head, neck, and back encounter impact. As a result, spinal cord injuries occur regularly, leading to long-lasting nerve damage, paralysis, and a lifetime of medical bills and care.

Contact a Ft. Collins Personal Injury Attorney

Seek medical treatment immediately after an accident. Being mindful of potential injuries to your vital organs can ensure effective diagnosis and care for injuries. Sufferers of organ damage related to a car accident should consider calling the Larimer County personal injury attorney with Hoggatt Law Office, P.C.. Call 970-225-2190 for a free consultation.

Slip and fall accidents are among the most common causes of personal injury, and they can happen to virtually anyone at any time. While it is possible to suffer any number of injuries from a slip and fall accident, there are three body parts in particular where most injuries occur. These vulnerable areas include the head, the back, and the hips. Suppose you have experienced a slip and fall injury. In that case, it is strongly recommended you contact a personal injury attorney to

get the process started of examining the event and pursuing compensation.

Look Out for These Injuries in Slip and Fall Accidents

Head injuries are one of the most severe types of injuries that can result from a slip-and-fall accident. When someone slips and falls, it is not uncommon for their head to hit a hard surface, such as a concrete floor or a tiled bathroom. Even a head injury that at first appears minor can end up having serious consequences, such as a concussion or a traumatic brain injury, which can result in cognitive and behavioral changes that, in severe cases, can be permanent.

Being injured in a car accident that was not your fault is amongst the most unpleasant experiences someone will ever have to endure, even in cases where the accident is relatively minor. In some cases, the drivers may be tempted to simply exchange insurance information and move on without involving the police. However, it is important to understand that filing a police report after a car accident, even a minor accident, can protect your legal rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve through a personal injury claim. Contact a personal injury attorney to begin the personal injury claims process.

Why Filing a Police Report is Essential

Here are a few reasons why filing a police report is so important, including:

• Documentation – One of the most important reasons to file a police report is that it provides an official record of the accident. This record can be critical for filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action later on. Without a police report, proving what happened in the accident and who was at fault can be more challenging.
• Liability – In some cases, drivers may agree to exchange insurance information and move on without calling the police. However, without a police report, establishing who was at fault can be difficult to determine. This can be particularly important if the other driver later changes their story or tries to deny responsibility for the accident.
• Injuries – As we wrote in a recent blog, even if the accident seems minor at the time, injuries can sometimes develop later on. If you do not file a police report, it can be more difficult to prove that your injuries resulted from the accident. This can make receiving compensation through a personal injury claim more challenging.
• Hit-and-run accidents – Of course, in a hit-and-run accident, filing a police report is absolutely imperative. Calling the police and filing a police report can help ensure that the driver is held accountable and can also provide important information for your insurance claim.

Contact a Fort Collins Car Accident Attorney

Please do not make the mistake of not filing a police report after your car accident, as it can significantly hinder the chance of receiving the compensation you may be entitled to. For additional information, contact the skilled Larimer County car accident lawyer with Hoggatt Law Office, P.C.. Call 970-225-2190 for a free consultation.

It is well known that car accidents can be traumatic and life-changing events. While some injuries may be immediately apparent, others can take time to manifest themselves. These types of injuries, known as delayed onset injuries, can be especially frustrating for sufferers, as they may not realize the full extent of their injuries until days or even weeks after the accident. This is a shining example of why, after a car accident, you must seek medical attention. Not only will seeking medical attention help you if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim, but it will also assist you in uncovering any injuries that may not be readily apparent to the naked eye.

Remember, if you have been injured in a car accident, contact a personal injury attorney for a fighting chance at receiving the compensation you may be entitled to.

Look Out for These Injuries

Here are some classic examples of car accident injuries that may not manifest themselves right away, including:

Rear-end collisions are a common form of car accidents, and they can cause a range of different injuries to the driver whose car was struck from behind. Understanding the kinds of injuries associated with rear-end accidents can help you recognize the signs of an injury and seek the appropriate medical treatment. Remember, if you have been involved in a car accident, contact an experienced personal injury to understand your rights and options moving forward.

Common Injuries in Rear-End Accidents

An injury that is frequently associated with rear-end accidents is whiplash. Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are rapidly lurched forward and then snapped quickly back, causing harm to the soft tissue region of the neck. Whiplash can cause significant pain, stiffness, limited range of motion in the neck, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. In addition to whiplash, other soft tissue injuries may include bruises, sprains, and strains, which are also very common. Soft tissue injuries can cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected area and may require physical therapy or other medical treatment to recover fully.

Concussions are another prevalent injury related to rear-end accidents. This occurs when the brain is shaken in the skull, causing bruising, swelling, and other damage. Concussions can cause a range of symptoms like headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, and sensitivity to light and sound.

Construction is a high-risk industry involving heavy equipment, dangerous tools, and hazardous materials. Workers on construction sites face various risks that can result in severe injuries and even death. Understanding the most common injuries on construction worksites is imperative for knowing what to look for when you are on the job. If you are a construction worker injured on a worksite, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Contact a workers’ compensation attorney to get the process started.

Five Most Common Construction Site Injuries

Here are five common construction injuries, including:

• Falls – Falls are the most common type of construction worksite injury. This can include falls from ladders, scaffolding, roofs, or other elevated surfaces. Workers not provided with proper fall protection or not trained to use fall protection equipment are at a higher risk of sustaining a fall-related injury.
• Struck-by-accidents – These injuries occur when workers are hit by falling objects, moving vehicles, or other equipment. This can include being struck by a crane boom, a falling tool, or a vehicle on the worksite. Workers who are not provided with the proper personal protective equipment or not trained to recognize and avoid struck-by-hazards are at a higher risk of sustaining a struck-by injury.
• Electrocution – Electrocution is a very serious risk for workers who are working near power lines or electrical equipment. This can include being electrocuted by contact with live wires or being injured by an electrical arc or explosion. Workers who are not trained to recognize electrical hazards or who are not provided with the proper protective equipment are at a higher risk of sustaining an electrical injury.
• Caught-in/between accidents – These accidents can occur when workers are caught, crushed, or pinched between two objects. This can include being caught in machinery or crushed by a collapsing structure.
• Repetitive motion injuries – Repetitive motion injuries can affect many professions, yet construction workers are at greater risk than most other professions. They can include injuries to the hands, wrists, elbows, or shoulders and back injuries. In addition, workers who perform repetitive tasks without proper ergonomics or equipment are at a higher risk of sustaining a repetitive motion injury.

Contact a Fort Collins Workers’ Compensation Attorney

If you have been injured at work, you need to hire an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who will fight to protect your rights and secure the compensation you may be entitled to. Contact the knowledgeable Larimer County workers’ compensation lawyers with Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. for more information. Call 970-225-2190 for a free consultation.

Being involved in a car accident can be a deeply traumatic experience. In the aftermath of an accident, it can be not easy to know what to do next. Unfortunately, several mistakes people commonly make after a car accident can have severe legal and financial consequences. As a result, consulting with an attorney after your accident is likely in your best interests as you look to recover from your injuries and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.

Here are Mistakes You Want to Avoid Making

• Failing to call the police – It is essential to contact law enforcement after a car accident, even if it is minor. The police report will provide critical information about the accident that can be used to support a claim for damages.
• Admitting fault – It is natural to want to apologize after an accident, but admitting fault can be used against you in a personal injury claim. Therefore, sticking to the facts and avoiding making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of fault is essential.
• Failing to exchange information – After an accident, exchanging contact and insurance information with the other driver is important. Failure to do so could make filing a claim for damages difficult.
• Failing to seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine after an accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Some injuries, like whiplash, may not show obvious symptoms for days following the accident. Failing to seek medical attention could result in delayed treatment and worsened injuries.
• Not taking pictures – It is important to take photos of the scene, including damage to both vehicles and any injuries sustained. Photos can provide valuable evidence to support a claim for damages.
• Not contacting your insurance company – After your accident, you will want to contact your insurance company to inform them about the accident. During this time, do not say anything that could hurt your claim. Remember that it may be prudent to promptly contact your insurance company and a personal injury lawyer in the aftermath of your injury. Your lawyer will be greatly beneficial when dealing with the insurance company, as they will be dedicated to safeguarding your best interests.

Contact a Fort Collins Personal Injury Attorney

Contact the skilled Larimer County personal injury lawyers with Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. for high-quality legal representation. Call 970-225-2190 for a free consultation.

Source - https://finance.yahoo.com/news/10-common-mistakes-too-many-170400669.html

When faced with the aftermath of an injury caused by someone else’s negligence, the injured party may be unsure about the best course of action to obtain compensation for their losses. Two common legal avenues are personal injury claims and lawsuits. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they represent different stages of the personal injury process. Today, we will discuss the essential differences between personal injury claims and lawsuits and help guide you through the steps involved in each. Remember, to best understand your legal options at this time, do not hesitate to contact a personal injury attorney to ensure your rights are protected throughout the process as you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.

Personal Injury Claims

A personal injury claim is typically the initial step an injured party takes to seek compensation for their damages, such as medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The claim is filed with the at-fault party’s insurance company, initiating a negotiation process between the injured party or their attorney and the insurance adjuster. A personal injury claim aims to reach a satisfactory settlement without resorting to a lawsuit. The claim process involves gathering evidence to support the injured party’s case, such as medical records, witness statements, and documentation of lost wages. Negotiations between the parties can continue until both sides agree on a fair settlement amount. If an agreement cannot be reached, the injured party may decide to file a lawsuit.

Personal Injury Lawsuits

Personal injury lawsuits are formal legal actions initiated when the claim process fails to result in a satisfactory settlement or when the statute of limitations is about to expire. The lawsuit is filed in a civil court, and the injured party must prove the defendant’s negligence caused their injuries. The lawsuit is more complex and time-consuming than the claim process and involves several stages, including:

Personal injury law and workers' compensation law are two types of law that deal with injuries caused by accidents. Although both types of law involve injuries, there are significant differences between the two. Today, we will discuss the essential differences between the two types of law. Remember, if you have suffered an injury, contact an attorney to ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process. If you are unsure what kind of attorney to call, this blog will provide that answer.

Personal Injury Law vs. Workers' Compensation Law

Personal injury law deals with injuries caused by another party's negligence or intentional actions. For example, suppose someone is injured in a car wreck because of someone else's reckless driving. In that case, the injured individual can file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver who caused the crash in order to seek compensation for their damages. Personal injury law also covers a wide range of accidents, including car crashes, slip-and-fall events, medical malpractice, and product liability.

Meanwhile, workers' compensation law deals with injuries that occur in the workplace. If an employee is injured on the job, they may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits to cover medical expenses and lost wages. Workers' compensation law is a no-fault system, meaning that the injured employee does not need to prove fault or negligence on the employer's part to receive benefits. The employer's insurance company typically pays workers' compensation benefits.

You are driving down the road when suddenly, in your rearview mirror, you see a car traveling at a high rate of speed heading straight for you. Before you can react, the car slams into yours, sending you into an out-of-control tailspin off the road. As your car spins and grinds to a halt off the road, you see the reckless driver take off in their car and speed away. You suddenly realize you just experienced a hit-and-run accident. What should you do?

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a terrifying experience. However, there are several steps you should take to protect your rights and ensure that you can pursue compensation for the damages to your vehicle and to any physical injuries you may have sustained. Today, we will discuss five steps you should take if you have been involved in a hit-and-run. To ensure your rights are protected, contact a car accident attorney who will guide you through the process as you work to secure the compensation you may be entitled to.

Five Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run

Here are five things to do if you ever find yourself in this situation, including:

Riding a motorcycle, especially here in beautiful Colorado, can be an exhilarating experience, but it can also be perilous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable out on the road, as they lack the protection of a car’s metal frame and are often overlooked by other drivers. Today, we are going to discuss what motorcyclists can do while riding that can help keep them safe and avoid deadly motorcycle accidents. If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to contact a personal injury to understand your legal options.

Essential Tips for Motorcyclists Who Want to Stay Safe

Keep these tips in mind for the next time you are out on the road riding your motorcycle, including:

• Wear proper safety gear – The most crucial thing a motorcyclist can do to protect themselves on the road is to wear the appropriate safety gear. This includes wearing a helmet, eye protection, gloves, a motorcycle jacket with built-in protective armor, and boots that cover the ankles. All of these items can provide crucial protection in the event of an accident.
• Ride defensively – Defensive driving is essential for motorcyclists, as other drivers often do not see them on the road. This means being aware of your surroundings, anticipating the actions of other drivers, and leaving plenty of space between your bike and other vehicles. It is also important to keep a safe distance from the other motorcycles and to avoid weaving in and out of traffic.
• Follow traffic rules – It is a must for all drivers but particularly crucial for motorcyclists. This includes obeying speed limits, using turn signals, and stopping at stop signs and red lights. It is also essential to keep your motorcycle in good working condition and ensure all lights and signals work correctly.
• Stay visible – One of the greatest dangers for motorcyclists is not being seen by other drivers on the road. This can be mitigated by wearing bright or reflective clothing, using headlights during the day, and positioning yourself in the lane where you are most visible to drivers.
• Always stay sober – This is a given, but it is essential to state it nonetheless. Never drive a car or motorcycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Contact a Colorado Motorcycle Accident Attorney

If you have been injured riding your motorcycle, contact the astute Larimer County motorcycle accident lawyers with Hoggatt Law Office, P.C.. Call 970-225-2190 for a free consultation.

In law, personal injury cases can arise when one person suffers harm or injury due to another person's negligence or intentional actions. These cases can be complex, and there are many misconceptions regarding personal injury cases that can prevent individuals from seeking the compensation they deserve. Today, we will be discussing what some of those misconceptions are. If you have suffered a personal injury, do not hesitate to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney.

Common Misconceptions Associated with Personal Injury Cases

Here are some of the most common misconceptions that many people associate with personal injury cases, including:

• Personal injury cases are all about getting rich quickly – This is one of the biggest misconceptions about personal injury cases. The truth is that most personal injury cases are about seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses incurred due to the injury. This compensation is intended to help the injured person get back on their feet and cover the costs and hardships related to the injury.
• Personal injury cases are easy to win – Contrary to popular belief, personal injury cases are not easy to win. The burden of proof is on the injured person to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the other party was negligent or intentionally caused harm.
• Personal injury cases are only for physical injuries – While personal injury cases typically involve physical injuries, they can also include emotional or psychological harm as well. For example, if a person has PTSD after a car accident, they may be able to seek compensation for their emotional distress.
• You can handle a personal injury case alone – This is a common misconception that can cost you dearly in the long run. Personal injury cases are complex, and the legal system can be confusing. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the process, negotiate with the insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
• You can wait to file a personal injury claim – In Colorado, for most non-automobile-related cases, the statute of limitations is two years, meaning you have two years to file a lawsuit after sustaining the injury. In cases of automobile accidents, the statute of limitations is three years, beginning immediately after the accident occurs. In cases where the defendant is the state of Colorado, or a county or city, the plaintiff will have 180 days to file a formal claim and two years to file the personal injury lawsuit.

Contact a Fort Collins Personal Injury Attorney

Consider consulting with the astute Larimer County personal injury lawyers with Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. for all your personal injury needs. Call 970-225-2190 for a free consultation.

Personal injuries can befall us at any time for various reasons. Personal injury law aims to provide a way for injured individuals to seek compensation for their losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Unfortunately, when filing a personal injury claim, certain mistakes can be made that can significantly jeopardize the success of your claim. Today, we will discuss some of those mistakes when filing a claim and how to avoid making them. Strongly consider contacting a personal injury attorney if you have suffered an injury to help ensure your rights are protected and advocated for.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Making Them

Several mistakes can jeopardize a personal injury claim. Here are some of the most common ones, including:

Failing to seek medical attention – If you have been injured, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Failing to do so can make it difficult to prove the extent of your injuries, and insurance companies may use this against you. Also, keep in mind that some injuries may not manifest themselves right away. Even if you do not think your injury is overly serious, still seek medical treatment.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are one of the most severe forms of personal injury that can befall a person. Tragically, these types of injuries can profoundly impact the lives of those suffering from them and their family. As a result, it is essential to understand the effects of such injuries and the potential legal ramifications of suffering a severe injury such as a TBI.

A traumatic brain injury occurs when an external force causes damage to the brain. This can happen for many reasons, including car accidents, sports injuries, falls, or even physical assault. Today, we will discuss the wide-ranging symptoms and effects of such injuries and the legal remedies available for someone who suffers this type of injury. If you have suffered a TBI and are wondering what legal options you may have, contact a personal injury attorney who will ensure that your rights remain protected and respected and that a positive case outcome can be pursued in your favor.

Symptoms and Effects of TBI

The extent to which someone is injured can play a significant role in the symptoms they experience. For example, if someone experiences a mild TBI, symptoms may include headaches, confusion, dizziness, and fatigue. However, more severe TBIs can lead to loss of consciousness, seizures, paralysis, and even death. TBI can have long-lasting and life-altering effects. In severe cases, individuals may experience various physical, cognitive, and emotional changes. These can include difficulty with balance and coordination, speech and language difficulties, memory and concentration problems, and changes in mood and behavior.

Motorcycle accidents can be some of the most severe road accidents, often leading to serious injuries or even death. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that motorcycle accidents are nearly 28 times more likely to result in fatalities than accidents involving passenger cars. Something that makes motorcycles especially dangerous is that it does not matter how safe a motorcycle driver someone is. You can be the safest motorcycle driver in the world, but it only takes one person’s negligence to turn a lovely day out on your motorcycle into a day of grief and tragedy.

If you have been injured on your motorcycle because of the negligence of another, consider contacting a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who can help protect your rights as you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.

What Factors Contribute to the Severity of Motorcycle Accidents?

One of the most significant factors contributing to the severity of motorcycle accidents is the lack of protection motorcycles offer their riders. Unlike cars, motorcycles do not have a metal frame, airbags, or other safety features to protect riders in the event of a collision. As a result, riders are at much higher risk of suffering severe injuries, such as broken bones, head injuries, and internal organ damage, even in low-speed accidents. Another factor contributing to the severity of motorcycle accidents is the high speed at which many riders travel. Motorcycles can reach high speeds quickly, making it difficult for riders to react in time to avoid an accident. Additionally, the small size and narrow profile of motorcycles can make them difficult for other drivers to see, increasing the risk of deadly collisions.

Whether we like it or not, driving is an essential form of transportation in our society. Unfortunately, many of us drive so much that we become numb to the dangers of driving. As a result, car accidents have unfortunately become a part of the risk we take every time we get behind the wheel. However, it is up to us to mitigate risk where we can. We cannot control how others drive, but we can control how we drive.

A significant risk to safe driving is distracted driving in all of its forms. Our society has become so digitized in recent years that distracted driving caused by texting on our cell phones has become a significant problem on roads across America. That being said, texting behind the wheel is not the only form of distracted driving that is highly dangerous. This blog will look at different forms of distracted driving and work to understand how distracted driving endangers everyone on the road. If you have been affected by a distracted driving accident, contact an attorney who will advocate for your best interests while working to obtain the compensation you may deserve.

Technology, Cell Phones, and Distracted Driving

There is no question that technology has improved our society in many different ways. At the same time, however, it has complicated our lives in many ways. This is especially true when it comes to cars. Many cars nowadays have immersive touchscreens that can become very distracting when people drive. In addition, such technology has the potential to cause deadly accidents.

Nearly everyone is in a situation at some point throughout the day that puts them in danger of being hit by a car. As a pedestrian, being hit by a car can be catastrophic, if not fatal. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were more than 76,000 car accidents involving pedestrians across the country in 2021. In addition to that, more than 7,300 pedestrians were killed in such accidents. 

Pedestrians are at risk of suffering severe injuries, like broken bones or brain injuries, when hit by a car, mostly due to the sheer difference in mass and size between the person and the vehicle. In many pedestrian accident cases, the injured pedestrians are able to receive some sort of compensation, which can come in many forms.

Types of Compensation in a Pedestrian Accident Case

When you file a lawsuit against a person for any type of accident, you will need to address the amount and types of compensation that you are seeking to recover. When you are unexpectedly injured, the types of losses you experience can be widespread. In a personal injury case, you can recover for many of these losses, which include:

If you have been injured by another person’s carelessness or negligence, you might decide to take your case to a personal injury lawyer. After reviewing the details of your case, the attorney might tell you that you do not have a valid case. That lawyer could suggest that, based on the facts, you will not be able to win the case, or imply that even if you won the case, what you will gain from the win will not make the cost of legal representation worth it to you. Be wary of this, particularly if this is the first lawyer you have seen about your case. Here are some ways you can decide for yourself whether you do have a case and should continue pursuing it.  

3 Ways to Handle a Lawyer Refusing to Take Your Case

Unfortunately, many people let accidents and injuries go unaddressed from a legal perspective by paying their medical bills and not pursuing legal action on the matter. With so many inaccurate representations of personal injury law in the media and entertainment world, it can be easy to be dissuaded or discouraged from filing a lawsuit for personal injury damages.

If you worked up the strength to take that first step, and the first lawyer you visit says you do not have a case, there are a few things you should do before giving up on the case entirely. These include but are not limited to:

Under Colorado law, employers must provide workers’ compensation insurance for almost all employees. Failure to do so may result in up to a $500 fine each day of noncompliance. In the overwhelming majority of cases, workers are eligible to receive these benefits even if they are partially to blame for the workplace accident. By obtaining these benefits, workers are generally prohibited from filing a lawsuit against their employer for additional damages. However, if a third party contributed to their injury, workers can pursue a lawsuit against that third party.

Why You Might Want to Pursue a Third-Party Claim

Although workers’ compensation benefits are intended to cover your medical expenses and lost wages that resulted from your work accident, they do not cover other damages, like pain and suffering, loss of quality of life, and punitive damages. In order to obtain compensation for these considerations, you would have to file a personal injury lawsuit. If a third party is responsible for your work-related injury, you may be able to file a claim against that person or entity.

There are several situations in which a third party may be held liable for your work injury, including: