Western Slope Law has announced a significant legal victory in the Colorado Supreme Court in the case of Klabon v. Travelers Property Casualty Company of America. The Supreme Court's unanimous 7-0 decision confirms that employees injured by the negligence of third parties can pursue underinsured motorist benefits, in addition to workers' compensation under Colorado law.

Attorney Nelson Waneka of Western Slope Law represented the plaintiff in this pivotal case. "This is an important issue in our state's tort law, and today's victory represents a win for all Colorado insureds," said Waneka. The ruling resolves previous legal ambiguities, ensuring that injured workers are not unjustly barred from accessing the full spectrum of compensation available to them.

The case arose from a 2019 incident where the plaintiff was injured in a vehicular accident caused by an underinsured driver while he was operating a company vehicle. Despite sustaining injuries resulting in over $500,000 in medical expenses, the at-fault driver's insurance covered only $25,000. Although the plaintiff’s employer had a $1 million underinsured motorist policy with Travelers, the insurance company paid out just $45,766, leading to the lawsuit.

The Colorado Supreme Court's decision clarifies that the Workers' Compensation Act does not prevent employees from seeking additional compensation from their employer's insurance provider when injured by a third party's negligence. Justice Maria E. Berkenkotter stated, "An employee can pursue a remedy when the employee is injured by the negligence of a third party." This landmark ruling ensures that injured employees can seek the full compensation they need for recovery.

This decision has significant implications for workers across Colorado, affirming their rights to additional compensation. Western Slope Law remains committed to advocating for the rights of individuals injured due to others' negligence and is proud to have played a role in achieving this important legal precedent.

For more information about this case or to learn how Western Slope Law can assist you with legal matters related to personal injury or workers' compensation, please visit our website at westernslopelaw.com or contact us at (970) 200-2222.

About Western Slope Law
Western Slope Law is a full-service law firm based in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, dedicated to providing exceptional legal services to individuals and businesses throughout the Western Slope. Our experienced attorneys specialize in personal injury, insurance, and premises liability, and are committed to achieving justice for our clients.

Contact:
Western Slope Law
817 Colorado Avenue, Suite 102
Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Phone: (970) 200-2222