What Injuries Are Most Common in California Workers’ Compensation Claims?

February 5, 2026

What Injuries Are Most Common in California Workers’ Compensation Claims?

Workplace injuries can happen in virtually any job, from construction sites and warehouses to offices and healthcare facilities. California’s workers’ compensation system is designed to provide benefits to employees who suffer injuries arising out of and in the course of their employment.


At Jackson & Jackson, our certified workers’ compensation attorneys have represented injured workers throughout Southern California since 1971. Over the decades, we have handled thousands of claims involving a wide range of work-related injuries. Understanding which injuries are most common can help workers recognize when they may be entitled to benefits.


Repetitive Stress and Overuse Injuries

One of the most frequently reported types of workers’ compensation injuries involves repetitive motion or overuse. These injuries often develop gradually over time and are common in jobs that require repetitive tasks such as lifting, typing, bending, or standing for long periods.


Common repetitive stress injuries include:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Tendinitis
  • Shoulder and elbow injuries
  • Chronic back strain


These injuries are compensable under California workers’ compensation law when they are caused or aggravated by job duties.


Back, Neck, and Spinal Injuries

Back and spinal injuries are among the most serious and common work-related injuries. They can result from heavy lifting, falls, vehicle accidents, or repetitive strain.


Examples include:

  • Herniated or bulging discs
  • Degenerative disc disease aggravated by work
  • Neck and lower back injuries
  • Spinal surgery cases


Jackson & Jackson Law Office has extensive experience handling complex spinal injury claims and advocating for long-term benefits when injuries result in permanent limitations.


Knee, Hip, and Lower Extremity Injuries

Jobs that require standing, walking, climbing, or heavy physical labor often lead to knee and lower extremity injuries. These injuries can significantly impact a worker’s mobility and ability to return to work.


Common lower body injuries include:

  • ACL and MCL tears
  • Meniscus injuries
  • Knee reconstructions or replacements
  • Ankle and foot injuries


Workers’ compensation benefits may cover medical treatment, wage replacement, and permanent disability related to these injuries.


Upper Extremity Injuries

Injuries to the arms, wrists, and shoulders are also common in California workers’ compensation claims. These injuries frequently occur in manufacturing, warehouse, healthcare, and service-related jobs.


Examples include:

  • Shoulder joint injuries
  • Rotator cuff tears
  • Elbow injuries
  • Wrist and hand injuries


Proper medical care and legal guidance are critical to ensuring these injuries are fully evaluated and compensated.


Mental Health and Stress-Related Injuries

California law may allow workers’ compensation claims for psychiatric injuries, particularly when they result from work-related stress, harassment, discrimination, or physical injuries.


These claims may involve:

  • Depression or anxiety caused by a work injury
  • Stress-related conditions due to workplace harassment
  • Psychological trauma following serious accidents


Mental health claims can be complex and often require strong legal advocacy.


Chronic Pain and Complex Medical Conditions

Some work injuries result in ongoing pain or complex medical conditions, including:

  • Fibromyalgia
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)


These cases often require detailed medical documentation and experienced legal representation to ensure injured workers receive appropriate benefits.


Death Claims Arising from Work Injuries

In tragic cases, workplace accidents can result in fatal injuries. Workers’ compensation provides death benefits to surviving dependents in cases involving falls, construction accidents, and other work-related incidents.


Jackson & Jackson Law Office represents families in death claims with compassion, care, and a strong commitment to justice.


Why Experienced Representation Matters

Workers’ compensation insurance companies often dispute injury claims, minimize severity, or delay benefits. Having an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.


Jackson & Jackson Law Office offers:

  • Certified Workers’ Compensation Specialists
  • One attorney assigned to your case from start to finish
  • Representation at all hearings and appeals
  • Access to top medical providers
  • Decades of proven results for injured workers


Workers’ Compensation Attorney in Los Angeles, California

If you’ve suffered a work-related injury—whether sudden or developed over time—you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Understanding your rights is the first step toward protecting your health and financial future.

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