Best Workers Compensation Lawyers in Chur

About Workers Compensation Law in Chur, Switzerland

Workers compensation in Switzerland is governed primarily by federal law - the Accident Insurance Act (abbreviated UVG in German). The system requires employers to insure employees against occupational accidents, non-occupational accidents in most cases, and certain occupational diseases. Insurance covers necessary medical treatment, rehabilitation and reintegration measures, daily loss-of-earnings benefits, and pensions for long-term disability or survivors. While the legal framework is federal, practical steps, insurers and dispute procedures can involve cantonal bodies in Graubunden and local offices in Chur.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Most claims under the statutory accident insurance are handled directly through the employer and the insurer. Still, a lawyer can be important in these common situations:

- Your claim for benefits was denied or reduced and you need to appeal the decision.

- There is a dispute about whether the event qualifies as an occupational accident or an occupational disease.

- The insurer disputes the cause, the extent of incapacity, or the appropriate level of benefits.

- You have a serious or permanent injury and need a correct calculation of disability pension or rehabilitation rights.

- You want to pursue a separate civil claim for damages against a third party or your employer for negligence.

- You are a cross-border worker, part-time worker, or self-employed person with unclear insurance status.

- You need help negotiating lump-sum settlements, vocational reintegration plans, or coordinating benefits from multiple systems.

Local Laws Overview

Key local and federal points relevant in Chur and the Canton of Graubunden include the following:

- Federal framework: The UVG sets out who must be insured, what benefits are available, and the general rules for coverage. Employers with employees working more than a specified minimum number of hours must maintain accident insurance.

- Insurers: Large statutory insurers such as SUVA and private accident insurers operate in Graubunden. Employers choose an approved insurer and must report accidents to that insurer.

- Employer obligations: Employers must provide workplace safety measures, notify and cooperate with the accident insurer, and inform employees how to report accidents. Some employment contracts or cantonal rules may require continued salary payments for a period after an accident - check your contract and local practice.

- Benefits and rehabilitation: The system emphasizes not only medical costs and income replacement but also vocational rehabilitation and re-integration into work where possible. Disability pensions are assessed based on loss of earning capacity.

- Dispute resolution: If you disagree with an insurer decision, there are complaint and appeal routes. Initial administrative remedies are generally pursued with the insurer, followed by judicial review in cantonal courts and potentially higher courts. Procedural details and deadlines can vary, so prompt action is important.

- Language and administration: Official procedures in Chur are commonly conducted in German. If you speak another language, arrange translations or legal help in your language to avoid misunderstandings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of accidents and diseases are covered?

Statutory accident insurance covers occupational accidents that occur in the course of work and many non-occupational accidents for insured employees. Occupational diseases listed under the law are covered when a causal link to work is established. Coverage includes medical treatment, rehabilitation, loss-of-earnings benefits and, when applicable, pensions for disability or survivors.

How do I report an accident in Chur?

Tell your employer as soon as possible and seek medical care if needed. Your employer is normally required to notify their accident insurer and to complete any required claim forms. Keep copies of all medical certificates, reports and communications. If your employer fails to act, contact the insurer directly and consider getting legal advice.

Who pays my medical bills and income while I am off work?

The accident insurer pays for necessary medical treatment and rehabilitation. For income replacement, the insurer generally pays a daily allowance based on a percentage of your insured earnings. Additional amounts or continued salary obligations depend on your employment contract and local practices, so confirm the exact arrangements with your employer and insurer.

What should I do if my claim is denied?

Request a written explanation from the insurer and follow their internal complaint procedure. Preserve all evidence - medical records, witness statements, photos and correspondence. If the insurer maintains the denial, consult a lawyer experienced in social insurance and workers compensation to assess appeal options and represent you in proceedings.

Can I sue my employer or a third party for damages?

Yes. A civil claim for damages against a negligent third party or employer can be possible in addition to statutory insurance benefits, but the insurer may have a right to recovery of benefits it paid from the responsible party. Civil claims involve different rules, standards of proof and deadlines, so get legal advice promptly.

What happens if my employer did not insure me?

If your employer failed to provide mandatory insurance, you should report this to the insurer or competent cantonal authority. You may still be entitled to benefits and the employer can face penalties. A lawyer can help you enforce rights and, if necessary, pursue claims against the employer.

Am I covered if I work part-time, as a contractor, or across the border?

Coverage depends on your employment status and contractual arrangements. Employees working above certain minimum weekly hours are generally covered. Self-employed persons must arrange their own accident insurance. Cross-border workers are often covered under Swiss rules but special coordination with foreign systems may apply. Check your status with the insurer or a lawyer who handles cross-border employment issues.

How long do benefits last and can they change over time?

Short-term benefits cover medical treatment and temporary loss of earnings. If injuries result in permanent disability, you may receive a pension. Benefits can be re-evaluated over time if your health or earning capacity changes. Rehabilitation measures aim to restore earning capacity and may change the type or amount of support you receive.

What proof is needed to show an accident is work-related?

Evidence can include medical reports, accident reports, witness statements, time and location records, employer documents and any safety records. A clear chain showing how the event occurred at work or in the course of employment strengthens a work-related claim. For occupational diseases, medical and occupational exposure history are essential.

How quickly should I act and how do I find legal help in Chur?

Act promptly - notify your employer, obtain medical records, and keep detailed documentation. Many remedies and appeals have strict deadlines, so consult a lawyer early if you expect a dispute. To find legal help in Chur, contact the cantonal bar association, ask for a lawyer experienced in social insurance and workers compensation, and request a written fee agreement before engagement.

Additional Resources

Useful types of resources and bodies to consult include:

- The federal office responsible for social insurance and accident insurance information and guidance.

- SUVA and other accident insurers for practical claim forms and guidance on benefits and procedures.

- Canton of Graubunden offices responsible for workplace safety and health, and any cantonal social insurance or labour authorities in Chur.

- The Cantonal Bar Association of Graubunden to find certified lawyers experienced in workers compensation and social insurance law.

- Consumer protection organizations and patient advocacy groups for help understanding medical and insurance issues.

- Your employer or human resources department for internal reporting procedures and copies of insurance policy information.

Next Steps

If you have been injured or suspect an occupational disease, follow these practical steps:

- Seek immediate medical attention and follow medical advice for your health first.

- Notify your employer as soon as possible and confirm that they will notify their accident insurer.

- Collect and keep evidence - medical reports, photos, witness names, any incident reports and communications with employer and insurer.

- Request written confirmation from the insurer of receipt of your claim and any decisions in writing.

- If your claim is disputed, you feel inadequately represented, or the case is complex, contact a lawyer specialised in workers compensation and social insurance in Chur. Ask about experience, likely fees and the expected timeline, and get an engagement letter in writing.

- Act quickly on appeals and complaints - procedural deadlines can be short. A timely consultation with a lawyer will help protect your rights and ensure you receive the benefits and support you are entitled to.