Many people believe that employers must provide vocational rehabilitation if injured workers cannot go back to their old jobs. While that is true in some other states, it has not been true in Colorado for injuries occurring after 1986. Colorado employers and their insurance carriers can provide rehabilitation, but most choose not to. When an insurance carrier does offer vocational rehabilitation, it is usually to prevent the worker from being permanently, totally disabled, which would require the insurance carrier to pay lifetime benefits.
If you have been injured in an on-the-job accident, you probably realize that workers’ compensation law is complicated and confusing. At the Eley Law Firm in Denver, we have focused on helping injured workers for more than 30 years. Attorney Cliff Eley and our staff are well-versed about all aspects of Colorado workers’ compensation law.
Some Employers Do Offer Vocational Rehabilitation
If your employer does offer rehabilitation, it might include a number of services — on-the-job training, skills testing and training, educational opportunities and other services. You need to be aware of these services because they may be required in order to receive your full measure of benefits. If you refuse to take advantage of any vocational rehabilitation services, the insurance company may be able to deny permanent total disability benefits.
If Your Employer Does Not Offer Vocational Rehabilitation, Know Your Rights
The workers’ compensation insurance carrier in your case probably will not offer vocational rehabilitation, so you need to make sure you know all the benefits available to you, especially if you are unable to return to your old job. Discuss your situation with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer.
Workers’ Compensation Rehabilitation · Free Consultation · Contact A Lawyer
Call the Eley Law Firm today at 303-785-2828 for a free case evaluation. You may also fill out the email form on the Contact page, and a representative from the office will be in touch with you shortly.
We look forward to hearing from you and helping with your workers’ comp case.
