How Long Does a Workers’ Comp Case Take in California?

One of the most common questions injured workers ask is “how long will my case take?” The honest answer: it depends. California workers’ comp cases can resolve in a few months or take several years, depending on the severity of your injury, whether your claim is disputed, and how quickly you reach maximum medical improvement.

Typical Workers’ Comp Timeline

Week 1-2: Filing and Initial Treatment

• Report injury to employer and file DWC-1 claim form
• Begin medical treatment
• Insurance company begins investigation

Days 3-14: Temporary Disability Payments Start

• If you miss more than 3 days of work, TD payments should begin within 14 days of the employer learning of your injury

Up to 90 Days: Claim Acceptance or Denial

• Insurance company has 90 days to accept or deny
• If denied, you can file an appeal with the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB)

Months 3-24: Active Treatment Phase

• Ongoing medical treatment — surgery, therapy, specialist visits
• Temporary disability payments continue
• Medical reports document your progress

Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)

• Your doctor determines your condition has stabilized
• A permanent disability rating is assigned
• This is when settlement negotiations typically begin

Settlement or Trial

• Settlement negotiations can take 1-6 months
• If no agreement, a WCAB trial may take an additional 6-12 months

What Makes Cases Take Longer?

• Disputed claims — the insurance company denies all or part of your claim
• Complex medical issues — multiple surgeries, cumulative trauma
• QME/AME disputes — disagreements over your medical condition
• Multiple body parts — more injuries mean more evaluations

How a Lawyer Can Speed Up Your Case

An experienced workers’ comp attorney can:

• Push for timely claim decisions
• Expedite medical authorizations
• Prepare strong evidence to avoid delays
• Negotiate efficiently for fair settlements

Attorney Eman Yazdchi — a Certified Specialist with 20+ years of experience — knows how to move cases forward efficiently. Call for a free consultation.