What to Do After a Workplace Injury in California: First Steps to Protect Your Claim

• Updated Nov 03, 2026
• Blog
• Michael Burgis & Associates, P.C

Quick Summary: If you’re injured at work in California, seek medical attention, report the injury to your employer, and file a DWC-1 workers’ compensation claim form. California generally requires employees to report workplace injuries within 30 days. Documenting your injuries, following medical recommendations, and understanding the claims process can help protect your right to benefits.

If you’ve been injured at work in California, you may be unsure what to do first. Should you see a doctor, report the injury to your employer, or file a workers’ compensation claim?

Taking the right steps early can help you obtain medical treatment, establish a record of your injury, and avoid unnecessary delays with your claim.

California has specific rules for reporting workplace injuries, filing claims, and obtaining medical care. Understanding these requirements can help you protect your rights, whether your injury happened in a single accident or developed gradually over time.

What Should You Do After a Workplace Injury in California?

California’s workers’ compensation system generally provides benefits for eligible work-related injuries and illnesses regardless of who caused the accident. However, obtaining those benefits involves specific procedures and deadlines.

Here are seven important steps to take after a workplace injury.

Step 1: Get Medical Attention Right Away

Your health should be your first priority after a workplace injury.

If you have a serious injury, call 911 or go to an emergency room. Tell the medical staff that your injury happened at work and explain how it occurred.

For injuries that don’t require emergency treatment, notify your employer and arrange an appropriate medical evaluation. Even if your symptoms seem manageable, a doctor can identify injuries that may not be immediately apparent.

Don’t delay necessary medical care while waiting for a workers’ compensation claim decision. For nonemergency treatment, your employer or claims administrator should provide instructions for obtaining care through the workers’ compensation system.

If you encounter delays or cannot obtain authorization for necessary treatment, contact the claims administrator to discuss your options.

Medical records created soon after an injury can provide important evidence of your symptoms, diagnosis, and their possible connection to your work.

Step 2: Report Your Injury to Your Employer

Notify your supervisor or employer as soon as possible after a workplace injury.

Under California Labor Code § 5400, employees generally must notify their employer of a work-related injury within 30 days. Failing to provide timely notice can jeopardize workers’ compensation benefits, although exceptions may apply, including situations where the employer already has sufficient knowledge of the injury.

Don’t treat 30 days as a waiting period. Report your injury as soon as you can, even if you believe your symptoms will improve.

When notifying your employer:

• Describe what happened. Include the date, time, location, and circumstances of the injury.
• Identify the affected body parts. Explain where you’re experiencing pain or other symptoms.
• Mention any witnesses. Include the names of coworkers or others who saw the incident.
• Keep a written record. Follow up a verbal report with an email or other written communication.

If your injury developed gradually, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or back problems from repetitive lifting, report it as soon as you learn or believe the condition is related to your job.

California law also prohibits certain forms of discrimination against employees who suffer workplace injuries or exercise their workers’ compensation rights. If you’re concerned about retaliation, document the circumstances and seek legal guidance.

Step 3: Complete the DWC-1 Workers’ Compensation Claim Form

Reporting an injury and formally filing a workers’ compensation claim are separate steps.

In California, the claims process begins when you submit a Workers’ Compensation Claim Form, known as the DWC-1.

Under Labor Code § 5401, your employer must provide or mail you a claim form within one working day after learning about your work-related injury or illness.

Here’s how to file your claim:

1. Get the DWC-1 form. Request it from your employer. If your employer doesn’t provide it, download a copy from the California Division of Workers’ Compensation.
2. Complete the employee section. Provide your information and describe your injury, including the body parts affected. Sign and date the form.
3. Return the form to your employer. Submit it promptly and keep a copy. If mailing it, use certified mail with return receipt requested so you have proof of delivery.
4. Request a completed copy. Your employer must complete its section, forward the claim to the claims administrator, and provide you with a completed copy.

Filing the DWC-1 establishes an official record of your claim and starts important deadlines for the employer and claims administrator.

If your employer refuses to provide the form or discourages you from filing, you can obtain the paperwork directly from the DWC. You may also want to consult a workers’ compensation attorney about your next steps.

Step 4: Document Your Injury and Keep Important Records

Accurate documentation can help support your claim if questions arise about how your injury occurred or how it affects your ability to work.

Start by recording the circumstances of your injury while the details are fresh.

Keep copies of:

• Incident information: The date, time, location, and circumstances of the accident.
• Photographs: Images of the accident scene, equipment involved, or visible injuries, when safe and appropriate.
• Witness information: Names and contact details of people who observed the incident.
• Medical records: Examination findings, diagnoses, treatment recommendations, and prescriptions.
• Claim paperwork: Your DWC-1, correspondence with the claims administrator, and other workers’ compensation documents.
• Work restrictions: Written instructions identifying duties or activities your doctor has restricted.

Keep a Symptom and Activity Journal

A simple daily journal can help you track how your injury affects your life and whether your condition improves or worsens.

Record information such as:

• Where you experience pain and how severe it is.
• Activities that increase your symptoms.
• Problems with sleeping, walking, lifting, or other daily activities.
• Changes in your ability to perform job duties.
• Medical appointments, treatments, and changes in your condition.

For example, if a back injury prevents you from lifting objects, standing for extended periods, or sleeping comfortably, document those limitations.

Your notes can help you describe your symptoms consistently to healthcare providers. They may also provide useful context if questions arise about your recovery or disability.

Step 5: Make Sure Your Medical Records Document All Your Injuries

A workplace accident can affect more than one part of your body. Some symptoms may also become apparent days or weeks after the initial incident.

When speaking with your healthcare providers, accurately describe every symptom you are experiencing, including those that initially seem minor.

Depending on your injury, this may include:

• Physical injuries: Pain or limitations involving your back, neck, shoulders, knees, hands, or other body parts.
• Neurological symptoms: Headaches, numbness, tingling, dizziness, or weakness.
• Psychological symptoms: Anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, or other emotional difficulties following the injury.
• Other medical concerns: Symptoms that may require evaluation by a specialist.

Not every reported symptom will necessarily qualify as a compensable workplace injury. For example, California has specific legal requirements for psychiatric injury claims. However, your medical providers should have an accurate understanding of your condition.

Be thorough and truthful when describing your symptoms. Avoid minimizing pain or limitations, but don’t exaggerate what you are experiencing.

If your doctor asks whether you can lift, walk, stand, or perform other activities, explain what you can actually do and what causes discomfort.

Medical documentation may become particularly important if your claim involves a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME), who may review your treatment records when addressing disputed medical issues.

Incomplete medical records can make it more difficult to establish the full extent of your injuries and treatment needs. If you develop new symptoms or notice that an injury wasn’t documented, inform your treating physician so your records can be updated.

Step 6: Understand the Workers’ Compensation Claim Deadlines

After you submit your DWC-1 claim form, several deadlines affect what happens next.

Medical Treatment Authorization

Under California Labor Code § 5402, your employer must authorize appropriate medical treatment within one working day after you file the claim form.

While the employer or claims administrator investigates your claim, the employer is responsible for up to $10,000 in qualifying medical treatment before accepting or rejecting liability.

This does not mean you receive $10,000 directly. It means appropriate medical care may be authorized during the investigation, subject to applicable treatment requirements.

Initial Claim Status

The claims administrator generally must notify you of your claim’s status within 14 days. If you don’t receive a notice, contact the administrator to request an update.

The 90-Day Decision Period

For most workers’ compensation claims, the claims administrator has 90 days after the DWC-1 is filed to reject liability.

If the claim is not rejected within that period, the injury is presumed compensable. The presumption can be rebutted only under limited statutory circumstances.

Certain qualifying injuries and illnesses, including specified public safety employee claims, are subject to a shorter 75-day period.

If your claim is accepted, the claims administrator is responsible for providing applicable benefits. If your claim is denied, you may have options to challenge the decision.

Learn more about applying for workers’ compensation benefits and addressing claim problems.

Keep track of important dates, correspondence, and medical treatment authorizations. If a decision or necessary treatment is delayed, request clarification from the claims administrator.

Step 7: Understand Your Rights When Choosing a Treating Doctor

California workers’ compensation has specific rules about which doctors can provide treatment for workplace injuries.

Your options depend on several factors, including whether your employer uses a Medical Provider Network (MPN) and whether you properly designated a personal physician before the injury.

If Your Employer Uses a Medical Provider Network

An MPN is a group of healthcare providers established by an employer or workers’ compensation insurer and approved under California’s workers’ compensation system.

If your employer uses an MPN, you generally must receive treatment from doctors within that network, unless an exception applies.

However, you typically have the right to change to another physician within the MPN after your initial evaluation.

If you’re uncomfortable with your current doctor or believe your treatment needs aren’t being addressed, ask about your options for selecting another network provider.

If You Predesignated Your Personal Physician

California law allows some employees to designate a personal physician before a workplace injury occurs, provided specific requirements are met.

If you completed a valid predesignation, you may be eligible to receive treatment from that physician rather than through the employer’s usual treatment arrangements.

If you haven’t predesignated a physician, ask your employer about the process for future injuries.

If Your Claim Is Denied

A claim denial can complicate access to medical care and create questions about who is responsible for treatment costs.

If your claim is denied and you are having difficulty obtaining necessary treatment, a workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand the available options for disputing the denial and addressing your medical needs.

You can also review the DWC’s guidance on medical care after a workplace injury.

What Should You Know About Speaking With the Insurance Adjuster?

After you file a workers’ compensation claim, an insurance adjuster or claims administrator may contact you to gather information about your injury.

The adjuster’s responsibility is to investigate and administer the claim on behalf of the insurer or employer. You should cooperate with legitimate claim-related requests while making sure the information you provide is accurate.

Keep these recommendations in mind:

• Stick to the facts. Explain what happened and describe your symptoms accurately. If you don’t know an answer, say so rather than guessing.
• Be careful with recorded statements. If you’re asked to give a recorded statement and have questions about your rights or obligations, consider consulting an attorney before proceeding.
• Avoid minimizing your condition. Describe your symptoms and limitations accurately rather than saying you’re fine when you’re still experiencing problems.
• Request important decisions in writing. Keep copies of communications concerning medical treatment, claim acceptance, denials, and benefits.

Be mindful of what you post publicly about your injury and activities. Social media posts can be misunderstood when viewed without their full context.

If you have an attorney, your attorney can assist with communications and help address disputes that arise during the claims process.

When Should You Contact a California Workers’ Compensation Attorney?

You can report a workplace injury and submit your initial DWC-1 claim form without hiring a lawyer.

However, legal guidance may be particularly helpful if:

• Your claim is delayed or denied.
• Your employer disputes whether your injury is work-related.
• Necessary medical treatment is refused or delayed.
• You disagree with medical findings or decisions about disability benefits.
• Your employer discourages you from filing or retaliates against you.
• You’re being pressured to settle a claim before you understand the consequences.

An attorney can review your circumstances, explain applicable deadlines, and help you address disputes that may affect your benefits.

For additional guidance, read about when to hire a California workers’ compensation lawyer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Workplace Injuries in California

Can I Receive Workers’ Compensation If the Workplace Accident Was My Fault?

Generally, yes. California workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning eligible employees typically do not have to prove employer negligence to receive benefits. You may qualify even if your own mistake contributed to the accident. However, certain statutory exclusions apply, and the injury must meet the requirements for workers’ compensation coverage.

What If I Didn’t Report My Workplace Injury Within 30 Days?

You may still qualify for benefits, depending on the circumstances. California generally requires employees to notify their employer within 30 days, but exceptions may apply, including situations where the employer already knew about the injury. If you missed the reporting deadline, notify your employer as soon as possible and consider seeking legal advice about how the delay may affect your claim.

Can I File a Workers’ Compensation Claim for an Injury That Developed Over Time?

Yes. California workers’ compensation covers qualifying cumulative trauma injuries and occupational illnesses, including conditions caused by repetitive movements, prolonged lifting, or workplace exposure. Because these injuries develop gradually, determining the applicable injury date and filing deadlines can be more complicated than for a single accident.

Do I Need a Lawyer to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

No. You can report your injury and file a DWC-1 claim form without legal representation. However, an attorney may be helpful if your employer disputes the injury, your claim is denied, or disagreements arise over medical treatment or disability benefits. A workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your rights and options for resolving these issues.

Protect Your Workplace Injury Claim With Help From Burgis Law

The steps you take after a workplace injury can affect your access to medical treatment and workers’ compensation benefits. Prompt reporting, accurate documentation, and compliance with medical recommendations can help prevent unnecessary complications.

At Michael Burgis & Associates, P.C., we represent injured workers throughout Southern California, with offices in Sherman Oaks, Pomona, Commerce, Santa Ana, and West Covina.

If you’ve been injured at work or are experiencing problems with your workers’ compensation claim, our attorneys can review your situation and explain your legal options.

Contact Burgis Law for a free case evaluation.