California workers compensation covers most workplace injuries — but it may not be your only option. Third-party claims can provide significantly more compensation.
Legal notice: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by state — always consult a licensed attorney before making any legal decisions.
Statute of Limitations
California workers compensation: report injury immediately. Personal injury claims against third parties: 2 years from the date of injury.
California has its own occupational safety agency — Cal/OSHA — with standards that frequently exceed federal OSHA requirements. California workers compensation (Labor Code § 3200 et seq.) provides medical treatment, temporary disability at 2/3 of wages, and permanent disability benefits. California also has unique additional employer penalties for serious and willful safety violations.
California-Specific Tip
California's workers compensation system is administered through the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB). California has some of the most complex workers comp rules in the country — an experienced California workers comp attorney is essential for any disputed claim.
📊 California's workers compensation system processes tens of thousands of claims annually. Third-party claims are frequently overlooked but can dramatically increase total recovery.
Report the injury to your supervisor in writing immediately
Seek medical attention immediately
File a workers compensation claim with your employer under California law
Document all expenses, lost wages, and out-of-pocket costs
Evaluate whether any third party contributed to your injury
Contact a California workplace injury attorney to evaluate all available claims
California has its own occupational safety agency — Cal/OSHA — with standards that frequently exceed federal OSHA requirements. California workers compensation (Labor Code § 3200 et seq.) provides medical treatment, temporary disability at 2/3 of wages, and permanent disability benefits. California also has unique additional employer penalties for serious and willful safety violations.
Generally workers compensation is the exclusive remedy against your direct employer. However you can still pursue third-party claims against any other party whose negligence contributed to your injury — contractors, equipment manufacturers, and property owners.
Even if your employer carries workers compensation, you can sue any third party whose negligence contributed to your injury. These third-party claims can include pain and suffering damages that workers comp does not cover, and can be pursued simultaneously with a workers comp claim.
No upfront cost. Contingency fees — you only pay if you win.
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The information provided on InjuryCorner is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Nothing on this site should be construed as creating an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary by state and individual circumstances differ — the content on this page may not apply to your specific situation. InjuryCorner makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of any information on this site. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. Always consult a licensed personal injury attorney in your jurisdiction before making any legal decisions. Use of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and InjuryCorner or any attorney listed on the platform.