WorkInjuryCalc
Colorado Workers' Comp · Occupational Disease

Manufacturing Worker Injured in Colorado?

Last updated: 2026 · Verified against Colorado DWC regulations

JH

Reviewed by: James R. Holloway, Esq.

Workers' Compensation Attorney · CA Bar #248701 · 14 yrs exp.

Last reviewed: January 2026 · Verified against state DWC regulations

Find out what your carpal tunnel syndrome claim is worth. Colorado workers typically receive $9,000–$72,000. Free, no-obligation assessment.

In Colorado, TTD benefits are capped at $1,325/week. The statute of limitations is 2 years from injury.

$9,000

Avg low

$72,000

Avg high

2 years

Deadline

Pre-filled for your situation — just add your wage & impairment info.

4
5
Step 4 of 5

Tell us about your work

$800
$200$3,000

Your estimated weekly TTD benefit: $533/week

2 yrs
1 month30 years
8 weeks
1 week52+ weeks

67%

of avg weekly wage (TTD)

$1,325

max weekly benefit

20%

typical attorney fee

2

filing deadline

Colorado Workers' Comp Law — Key Facts

Governing statute: C.R.S. § 8-40-101 et seq.

TTD rate: 67% of average weekly wage

Maximum weekly benefit: $1,325

Statute of limitations: 2 years from injury

Filing deadline: Report to employer within 10 days

Key features of Colorado's system:

  • Division-designated independent medical examiner (DIME) system
  • AMA 3rd Edition (revised) for impairment ratings (unique to CO)
  • Employer must file a Final Admission of Liability (FAL) at MMI

Colorado's Division of Workers' Compensation (DOWC) administers the system with a focus on medical management and early return to work. Colorado requires employers to maintain an authorized treating physician and uses division-designated medical examinations (DIME) to resolve disputes over MMI and impairment ratings. Permanent impairment is rated under AMA Guides, 3rd Edition (revised), which is unique to Colorado.

What to Expect with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Colorado

8%

Average impairment rating

$12,000

Average medical costs

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common occupational peripheral nerve disorder in the United States, caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist. Assembly workers, cashiers, data-entry operators, and vibrating tool operators have a significantly elevated prevalence compared to the general population. CTS is diagnosed via nerve conduction study (NCS) and electromyography (EMG), and the severity is graded mild, moderate, or severe. Mild and moderate CTS responds to splinting, ergonomic modification, and steroid injections in many cases, but severe CTS typically requires carpal tunnel release surgery. Bilateral CTS is common in occupational settings and results in compounded impairment ratings. Causation is often disputed by employers claiming the condition is idiopathic; epidemiological data and a physician's occupational causation opinion are essential.

Common treatments

  • Wrist splinting (especially nocturnal)
  • Corticosteroid injection
  • Ergonomic workstation modification
  • Carpal tunnel release surgery (open or endoscopic)
  • Post-operative occupational therapy
  • Nerve gliding exercises

Documentation needed

  • Nerve conduction study and EMG report
  • Occupational medicine or hand surgeon evaluation
  • Job description detailing repetitive and forceful hand use
  • Ergonomic workstation assessment
  • Duration and volume of repetitive work history
  • AMA impairment rating post-MMI
Return to work: Post-carpal-tunnel release: light duty in 1–2 weeks; full grip strength and unrestricted work typically at 3–6 weeks.

Frequently asked questions

How is carpal tunnel syndrome compensation calculated in Colorado?

In Colorado, your weekly benefit is 67% of your average weekly wage, capped at $1,325. Permanent disability is calculated based on your impairment rating.

What is the average carpal tunnel syndrome settlement in Colorado?

Colorado workers with carpal tunnel syndrome typically settle between $9,000 and $72,000, depending on impairment rating, treatment costs, and lost wages.

How long do I have to file a workers' comp claim in Colorado?

2 years from injury. Missing this deadline can permanently bar your claim. Contact a workers' comp attorney as soon as possible.

Do I need a lawyer for a workers' comp claim in Colorado?

You are not required to have an attorney, but representation significantly increases average settlement amounts. Most workers' comp attorneys work on contingency — no fee unless you win. Typical fees are 20% of settlement.

Get a free case review

A licensed attorney in your state contacts you within 24 hours. No fees unless you win.

This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Actual compensation depends on the specific facts of your case, your state's workers' compensation laws, and the outcome of any proceedings. Always consult a licensed workers' compensation attorney in your state.