Quick Answer:
If you’re injured on the job in Colorado Springs, report the injury to your employer right away—ideally in writing—and seek medical care from an authorized provider. Colorado law requires notice within four working days, and acting fast protects both your health and your right to workers’ compensation benefits.

Introduction

Workplace injuries often happen suddenly but can affect your health, livelihood, and future for months—or even years. In Colorado Springs, whether you work in construction, healthcare, retail, or an office, the steps you take immediately after a workplace injury will strongly impact your workers’ compensation claim.

At Bradford Pelton PC, we’ve spent over 40 years helping injured workers in El Paso County navigate Colorado’s workers’ compensation system. Acting quickly and carefully can protect your rights, ensure you receive medical care, and help secure the benefits you deserve. This guide walks you through the critical steps to take after a work injury in Colorado Springs.

Table of Contents

• Step 1: Report the Injury Immediately
• Step 2: Seek Medical Treatment From an Authorized Provider
• Step 3: Document Everything
• Step 4: File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
• Step 5: Follow Medical Advice Closely
• Step 6: Watch for Red Flags From the Insurance Company
• Step 7: Call Bradford Pelton PC
• FAQ
• Schedule a Free Consultation

Step 1: Report the Injury Immediately

Colorado law requires workers to report an on-the-job injury within four working days.

• Always put it in writing—email, letter, or employer injury form.
• Keep a copy for your records.
• Report all injuries, even if they seem minor. A “tweaked back” or “bumped knee” can become more serious over time.

Failing to report promptly may reduce or delay your benefits.

Step 2: Seek Medical Treatment From an Authorized Provider

Under Colorado’s workers’ compensation rules, your employer or their insurance company chooses the authorized medical providers.

• Ask your employer for the list of approved doctors.
• If you seek treatment elsewhere, your bills may not be covered.
• In an emergency, go to the nearest ER (UCHealth Memorial, Penrose-St. Francis, etc.). For follow-up care, you must switch to an authorized provider.

Step 3: Document Everything

Detailed records strengthen your case if your claim is delayed or denied. Track:

• How, when, and where the injury happened
• Names of witnesses
• Every medical visit, diagnosis, and treatment
• Missed workdays and lost income
• Communications with your employer and insurer

A notebook, calendar, or phone app can help you stay organized.

Step 4: File a Workers’ Compensation Claim

Reporting the injury is not the same as filing a claim. You must submit a Workers’ Claim for Compensation (Form WC15) with the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation.

• Deadline: Up to 2 years from the date of injury (but don’t wait).
• Benefits may include medical treatment, wage replacement, disability compensation, mileage reimbursement, and vocational rehab.

Filing early shows you’re serious and helps prevent insurance delays.

Step 5: Follow Medical Advice Closely

Your medical records heavily influence your benefits. Insurance companies often use missed appointments or ignored instructions as reasons to deny claims. Protect yourself by:

• Attending all scheduled appointments
• Following your doctor’s orders
• Taking medications as prescribed
• Keeping all treatment records

Step 6: Watch for Red Flags From the Insurance Company

Insurance carriers may try to protect their bottom line by:

• Denying or delaying your claim
• Downplaying your injury
• Releasing you back to work before you’re ready

If you see any of these tactics, it’s time to contact a Colorado Springs workers’ compensation lawyer.

Step 7: Call Bradford Pelton PC

At Bradford Pelton PC, we represent injured workers across Colorado Springs in industries from construction to healthcare. We handle:

• Denied or delayed claims
• Permanent disability compensation
• Occupational illness and repetitive stress injuries
• Lump-sum settlements

With over four decades of experience, we know how to push back against insurance companies and fight for the benefits you’re owed.

👉 Schedule a free consultation today so you can focus on healing while we protect your rights.

FAQ

How long do I have to report a workplace injury in Colorado?

You must notify your employer within four working days. Written notice is best to protect your rights.

Can I see my own doctor after a workplace injury?

Not usually. Your employer’s insurer controls the list of approved providers. If you go outside that network, treatment may not be covered—except for true emergencies.

What benefits are available under Colorado workers’ compensation?

Benefits may include medical treatment, wage replacement, temporary or permanent disability, vocational rehabilitation, and mileage reimbursement.

What if my claim is denied?

You can appeal, but this process is complex. Having a workers’ compensation attorney can improve your chances of success.

Do I need a lawyer for every workplace injury claim?

Not always. For minor, undisputed claims, you may not. But if your injury is serious, your benefits are delayed, or the insurer challenges your case, legal help is critical.

Schedule a Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured at work in Colorado Springs, don’t wait. Quick action helps protect your health and your right to benefits. Let Bradford Pelton PC handle the legal details while you focus on recovery.

📞 Call us today at (719) 634-8828 or schedule your free consultation online.

Written by Alex Kerr, Attorney at Bradford Pelton PC, a Colorado Springs personal injury law firm serving the community for over 40 years.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Every case is unique, and results will vary.