Workers Compensation in California
State-specific overview · Employment Law
California requires all employers to carry workers' compensation insurance and imposes strict liability on employers for workplace injuries regardless of fault.
How California treats Workers Compensation
California mandates workers' compensation coverage for virtually all employers, including those with just one employee, with very limited exemptions. The system operates on strict liability, meaning injured workers receive benefits regardless of whether the employer was negligent, in exchange for limited ability to sue employers directly. California allows workers to sue third parties responsible for injuries and provides some of the nation's highest benefit rates. The state also requires employers to post notices informing workers of their rights and maintain records of all workplace injuries.
The general definition of Workers Compensation
Insurance that provides medical benefits and wage replacement to employees injured during work.
Workers compensation is a form of insurance that employers are required to carry to protect employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. When an employee is hurt at work, workers compensation covers medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and a portion of lost wages while the employee recovers. In exchange, the employee generally gives up the right to sue the employer for the injury. The system is designed to provide quick, predictable benefits without the need for a lawsuit. Benefits vary by state and depend on the severity of the injury.
Read the full Workers Compensation entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in California.