How Is Disability Defined in Colorado Workers’ Compensation Claims?

 Posted on June 17, 2020 in Workplace Injury

Although Colorado Governor Jared Polis’ “Stay At Home” order officially expired on April 26, many counties and cities in the state have continued to observe restrictions on business in an effort to limit the spread of coronavirus. For many Coloradoans, the return to normalcy will be a much longer time in coming as the Colorado Public Radio reports the COVID-19 pandemic “has erased one in 10 jobs in Colorado.” As heavily affected industries—such as restaurants, construction, and public works—begin to operate again and resume their projects, it may be more important than ever to be vigilant about safety. Workplace accidents occur even in the best of times and to the most cautious of employees. As a number of employees begin to return to work and employee density around construction sites, high-pace workplaces, and hazardous areas increases, accidents can occur. Therefore, it is important to understand disability and how it relates to workers’ compensation claims.

The Four Categories of Disabilities in Colorado

When dealing with the possibility of lost time or wages due to a workplace injury, it is imperative to remember not all injuries and their resulting disabilities are equal. The State of Colorado Department of Labor and Employment recognizes this and has defined four categories of disability under which injured workers can make claims. They are temporary or permanent, and partial or total disability as explained below:

1. Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) – This applies if you return to work after a workplace injury, but you are not earning your normal pay, working your normal hours, or are missing time from work due to medical appointments.

2. Temporary Total Disability (TTD) – This applies if your physician takes you completely off work or makes restrictions that your employer cannot accommodate after a workplace injury.

3. Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) – This can be used when your workplace injury has caused a permanent loss of function or impairment to a body part.

4. Permanent Total Disability (PTD) – This may be used when your injury has left you unable to earn any wages for the rest of your life.

Even though only a licensed physician can accurately diagnose your injury, it is important to note how broad the definition of Temporary Partial Disability is, as it includes a reduction of wages, hours worked, or even time missed due to medical appointments.

Contact a Fort Collins Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Workplace injuries can cause an undue financial burden to affected workers, in addition to the physical and mental toll they can inflict. If you or someone you know is unable to perform a job due to injuries, you may be entitled to compensation. That is why it is crucial that you seek legal counsel from a knowledgeable Larimer County workplace injury attorney. Call the experienced legal team at Hoggatt Law Office today at 970-225-2190 to schedule your free consultation.

Sources:
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdle/node/19931
https://www.cpr.org/2020/04/24/coronavirus-has-erased-1-in-10-jobs-in-colorado-what-does-that-really-mean-for-the-unemployed/