DENVER - Colorado employers will pay an average of 9.7 percent less in 2010 for workers' compensation premiums because of decreasing numbers of filed claims.

"Workers' compensation insurance loss costs have declined more than 50 percent since 2000, and this year's decrease represents the eighth decrease in nine years," said Marcy Morrison, Colorado insurance commissioner.

"Colorado employers could see as much as $84 million in reduced premiums for workers compensation insurance, if all insurers implemented the revised loss costs with no further adjustments," Morrison said.

The cost reduction will go into effect on Jan. 1. While lower costs are a significant factor in workers' compensation premiums, each employer's deductible selection and actual loss experience also have an impact.