What Is the Average Workers’ Comp Settlement in California? [2025 Updated]

When you are injured as a result of performing your duties at work, workers’ compensation can often be an important source of support to help you provide for your family and pay medical bills and other related expenses. However, the process can be complicated, frustrating, and overwhelming. Many injured workers wonder what to expect from a workers’ comp settlement and may ask: What is the average workers’ comp settlement in California?

The short, and maybe unsatisfying, answer is that it is not really possible to determine a true average settlement amount. Settlements are determined on a case-by-case basis based on what the injured individual needs. Each case is a little different from others, and there are many elements that factor into determining the amount of a workers’ comp settlement, such as:

• The nature of the injury or illness
• The severity of the injury
• The length of recovery
• How much work the employee missed
• The total cost of all medical expenses
• Possible future medical needs
• Whether the worker is temporarily or permanently disabled
• How severe the impairment is
• If the employee needs retraining because they are unable to return to their previous job
• The impact of the injury on the person’s earning capacity
• The age and health of the worker
• The claims history of the employee and employer

The most reliable way to determine how much your workers’ comp settlement might be worth is by consulting with an experienced workers’ comp attorney, who can review your case, explain how the laws apply, and help you calculate your expenses and any lost wages. Reviewing the available workers’ comp information and understanding the factors that affect settlements can help you get a clearer picture of how that can impact your case.

Workers’ Comp Claims Data Might Surprise You

In 2023, California employees filed a total of 680,152 claims for workers’ comp benefits statewide. Just in Orange County, workers’ comp claims reached 55,158 that year. That is an average injury rate of 3.6 injuries or illnesses per 100 employees in Orange County.

According to the most recent data from the National Safety Council, the average cost for workers’ compensation claims in the US between 2021 and 2022 was $44,179. This only counts claims that involve an injury from an accident, not illnesses. In addition, looking at the differences in amounts based on the cause of injuries shows a vast discrepancy in average settlement per claim.

• The highest costs were related to motor vehicle collisions at an average of $90,914.
• Burns cost an average of $63,119 per claim.
• Falls or slips came in third at $51,047.
• Compression or crushing injuries averaged $46,902 per claim.

Another important factor is which part of the body is injured. Injuries to the head or spine, for example, cost an average of $91,844 for each claim, while claims for injuries to the hands or fingers cost an average of $27,072. Similarly, the nature of the injury can have a big impact on the settlement amount. Amputations cost an average of $120,077, while lacerations cost significantly less at $32,793.

Even without accounting for individual circumstances, the data clearly shows that different kinds of claims can have vastly different impacts on settlement amounts. Many workers also do not realize that they can negotiate for a higher settlement from the insurance company and even appeal the determination with the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board. They have an office at 1065 N Link in Anaheim.

FAQs About Workers’ Compensation Settlements in California

What Does Workers’ Comp Pay for in California?

In California, workers’ comp pays for medical expenses like doctor and hospital bills, lost wages, temporary or permanent disability, and, in some cases, vocational rehabilitation. Each case is a little different from others, and each worker has unique needs depending on their injuries. An experienced workers’ comp lawyer can help you determine how to get the compensation you need to recover from your work-related injury.

What Is the Maximum Payout for Workers’ Comp in California?

There is not one maximum payout for workers’ comp in California, as each case is unique. There may be caps on some aspects of a workers’ comp payout, such as temporary disability or lost wages, but other aspects, like medical bills, generally do not have a maximum. Each payout amount depends on the needs of the injured employee. For example, some workers only need medical benefits and do not miss any work.

Should I Fill Out the Workers’ Comp Form My Employer Gives Me?

Yes, you should fill out the workers’ comp form your employer gives you to open your claim and start your workers’ comp case. If you don’t fill it out, you may lose your eligibility for benefits. Furthermore, employers are required to provide you with this form. Be sure to return the form as soon as possible and keep a copy for your own records. Your workers’ comp attorney can help make sure you meet all requirements and deadlines.

Can I Be Fired for Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim?

No, you cannot be fired for filing a workers’ comp claim. It is illegal for an employer to fire an employee just for filing a workers’ comp claim. When this happens, the employee may be entitled to file a legal claim for wrongful termination. If you believe you may have been fired for filing a workers’ comp claim, consult with an experienced attorney right away. They can review your case and help determine whether you have grounds for a legal claim.

Experienced and Compassionate California Workers’ Comp Lawyer and Law Firm

If you have suffered an injury or illness at work, whether from a one-time event or a cumulative effect of your job duties, the skilled attorneys at Canlas Law Group, APLC, can make sure your rights and interests are protected. We can ensure you recover as much as possible and minimize the mental and financial burden on you and your loved ones. Contact our office today to schedule your initial consultation.