California's workers' compensation system exists to protect you. Many injured workers never claim everything they're owed simply because no one told them what they're entitled to. Here's the short version.
Medical care at no cost
For an accepted work injury, authorized treatment is paid for you — plus mileage to appointments.
Coverage regardless of fault
Workers' comp is no-fault. You don't have to prove anyone was negligent — only that the injury was work-related.
Protected regardless of status
Most California employees are covered no matter their immigration status. It's illegal to use a claim to threaten you.
Wage replacement
If you can't work while recovering, temporary disability pays about two-thirds of your wages, tax-free.
Payment for lasting injuries
If your injury leaves a permanent rating, you're owed permanent disability benefits based on that rating.
A second opinion
If you're unhappy with your treating doctor, you can generally switch within the Medical Provider Network.
To challenge a denial
You can appeal a denied claim or a denied treatment — through the WCAB or Independent Medical Review.
Freedom from retaliation
It's illegal to fire, demote, or punish you for filing a claim. Labor Code 132a lets you recover if they do.
What you're responsible for
Your rights come with a few duties that keep your claim strong:
- Report promptly — generally within 30 days, in writing.
- Follow your treatment plan — gaps in care are used to dispute claims.
- Be honest and accurate with your doctors and evaluators about your symptoms and history.
- Watch your deadlines — especially the one-year limit to file with the WCAB.
If any of these rights are being denied to you, that's exactly the kind of situation worth a free conversation with a workers' comp attorney.