Common Mistakes That Can Delay Your Workers’ Comp Claim

 Posted on December 07, 2025 in Workers' Compensation

Workers’ compensation is designed to give you fast access to benefits when you suffer an injury at work. These benefits pay for medical treatment and replace part of your lost wages. However, even small errors can slow down your claim and delay your benefits. Our Larimer County, CO workers’ compensation lawyer can help you access the money you need to recover without worry.

Reporting the Injury Too Late Can Hurt Your Claim

One of the most common reasons for delays in resolving workers’ comp claims is waiting too long to report the injury. As of 2025, you have 10 days to report your injury in writing to your employer. It used to be four days until the law changed in 2022. Written notice gives you proof that you reported your injury on time.

If you wait, the insurance company might question when or how the injury happened. They could also delay reviewing your claim while they look into the timing. Even if your pain seems mild, report it right away. Telling your employer early shows that you are following the law and helps create a record of what happened.

Delaying Medical Treatment Creates Doubt About the Injury

Putting off medical care can also cause problems. Some workers try to ignore pain or believe the injury will heal on its own. This can make it harder to prove that your injury is work-related. Seeing a doctor right away helps your health and your claim. The medical records show what caused your injury, when it happened, and how serious it is. That information helps the insurance company process your claim faster.

Under C.R.S. § 8-43-404(5), your employer must give you a list of approved doctors. You must choose a doctor from that list to have your medical bills covered. If you see a doctor who is not authorized, the insurance company might refuse to pay for treatment.

Ignoring Doctor’s Orders Can Lead to Benefit Delays

After you see a doctor, follow all their instructions. Skipping appointments, missing therapy sessions, or ignoring work restrictions can delay your benefits. The insurance company might argue that your injury is not serious or that you are not cooperating with your treatment plan.

Under C.R.S. § 8-42-105, your wage replacement benefits, known as "temporary disability benefits," depend on whether you can work. If you return to work before your doctor clears you, your benefits could be reduced or stopped. Always follow your doctor’s advice about when to return to work. Keep copies of your medical notes and share updates with your employer. This shows that you are doing your part to recover.

Paperwork Errors Are a Common Cause of Claim Delays

Mistakes on forms are another reason claims get delayed. Workers’ compensation paperwork must be accurate and complete. Wrong dates, missing signatures, or missing details can slow the process while the insurer asks for corrections. Even simple errors, like forgetting a phone number or misspelling your employer’s name, can slow things down.

Before submitting any paperwork, read it carefully and make sure everything matches your medical reports and employer information. Keep copies of every document you send. This small step can prevent long delays later.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Fort Collins, CO Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Attorney Darby Hoggatt has decades of experience fighting for injured workers across Northern Colorado. He is a member of the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association and the Workers’ Compensation Education Association because he is committed to helping workers understand their rights and recover the benefits they deserve.

Contact Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. today at 970-225-2190 to schedule a free consultation with a compassionate Larimer County, CO workers’ compensation lawyer you can trust. Se Habla Español.