Table of Contents
Estimated reading time: 20 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Are broken bones covered? Yes — fractures that arise out of and in the course of employment are covered by California workers’ compensation (medical care, wage replacement, disability). Sources: California hand and fracture coverage overview, broken bones and workers’ comp benefits.
- What benefits? Medical care, temporary disability (TD = 2/3 AWW), permanent disability (PD) ratings, vocational rehab, mileage and incidentals. Sources: benefits for fracture claims, TD/PD and ranges, vocational rehab and benefits list.
- When to file? Report to employer ASAP (ideally same day); file within 30 days; get immediate medical care. Sources: reporting and care, timelines and coverage.
- When to get a lawyer? If claim denied, surgery needed, large PD, lowball offers, or third‑party potential. Source: when to involve counsel.
Introduction
Broken arm at work compensation in California is designed to pay for medical care, lost wages, and disability when a fracture happens on the job. This guide explains how a fracture injury workers comp claim works for construction crews, warehouse teams, healthcare staff, drivers, and other employees, and clarifies what counts as work-related (“arising out of and in the course of employment”) along with available benefits (medical, TD, PD, retraining, and potential third‑party recovery). See: coverage and benefit basics for fractures and how broken-bone claims are handled. For payout ranges and timelines, refer to this California workers’ comp settlement overview.
Whether you need details about how claims work (informational intent) or how to file, settle, or hire counsel (transactional intent), you’ll find step‑by‑step guidance here. We also reference PD conversions and benefit ranges used in California workers’ comp charts so you can better understand bone break injury workers compensation California from start to finish.
California workers’ compensation basics
In California, workers’ comp is a no‑fault insurance system that pays for medical care and indemnity benefits when an injury occurs on the job — the standard applies to bone break injury workers compensation California claims just as it does to other injuries. See this explanation of no‑fault coverage and eligibility.
What it covers, in plain English:
- Medical care: doctor visits, imaging (X‑ray/CT/MRI), surgery, therapy, orthotics, and durable medical equipment. Source: medical benefits for fractures.
- Temporary disability (TD): wage replacement while you heal, generally about two‑thirds of your average weekly wage (AWW). Source: TD mechanics and ranges.
- Permanent disability (PD): compensation for lasting impairment after MMI (maximum medical improvement) and a rating process. Source: PD for broken bones.
- Vocational rehab: retraining and return‑to‑work support through the Supplemental Job Displacement Voucher if you can’t go back to your old job. Source: vocational benefits basics.
- Death benefits: payments to dependents when a work injury is fatal.
Employer obligations include:
- Provide and offer a DWC‑1 claim form promptly after notice, and keep a copy. Source: DWC‑1 explanation. You can also review our filing walkthrough here: how to file a workers’ comp claim in California.
- Ensure access to authorized treatment (often via an employer panel or medical provider network) and report the injury to the carrier. Source: California workers’ comp law summary.
- Timelines matter: report as soon as possible; the 30‑day reporting rule exists to prevent disputes. Late reporting can be challenged, though it’s not an automatic bar. Sources: reporting guidance, timelines for broken bones. For a deeper dive on prompt notice, see California’s injury reporting timing.
The causation standard is “arising out of and in the course of employment.” In practice: if you fell from a ladder while installing shelving during your shift, that’s covered; if you broke your arm commuting off duty with no work connection, it typically isn’t. Source: arising out of/in course of employment overview.
Typical fracture types & how they affect claims
Understanding fracture categories helps set expectations for treatment and benefits:
- Closed vs. open: open fractures pierce the skin and raise infection risk, often requiring more extensive care.
- Displaced vs. nondisplaced: displaced fractures may need operative reduction and fixation (ORIF), while nondisplaced can sometimes be treated with immobilization.
- Comminuted and intra‑articular: comminuted = multiple fragments; intra‑articular = the joint surface is involved, raising arthritis risk.
Common sites and functional impact:
- Arm: radius/ulna, distal radius (Colles), and humerus — can limit grip strength and dexterity, especially if the dominant hand is affected.
- Leg: tibia/fibula, femur — weight‑bearing limitations can extend TD and complicate return‑to‑work.
- Foot: metatarsals, calcaneus, talus — higher risk of post‑traumatic arthritis and a frequent need for orthotics or supportive footwear; these foot fracture work injury benefits often involve ongoing supports. See: foot fracture impacts and care.
Typical care and timelines:
- Casting or splinting: ~4–8 weeks for stable fractures.
- ORIF (open reduction internal fixation): surgery, possible inpatient stay, hardware placement; recovery 3–6+ months.
- External fixation: used for complex fractures; healing may take several months.
- Physical/occupational therapy: often 6–12+ weeks after immobilization or surgery.
More invasive treatment (like ORIF) usually lengthens TD and increases the chance of a measurable PD rating. Sources: fracture treatment implications, surgery and benefit impact. For context on charts and ranges that often frame settlement discussions, see these California settlement chart references.
Step-by-step: Filing a fracture injury workers comp claim
A fracture injury workers comp claim benefits from fast, organized steps. Here is a concise plan you can follow:
Get medical care now
If it’s an emergency, call 911 or go to the ER. Otherwise, use your employer‑authorized clinic or, if necessary, the nearest ER/urgent care. Early care both protects your health and documents causation (what happened, when, and where). Source: immediate treatment guidance.
Notify your employer in writing
Tell your supervisor right away and follow up in writing (email/text). Sample wording: “On [date] at [time], I was injured at [location] while [activity]. I sustained a fracture to my [body part]. Please provide a DWC‑1 claim form and confirm medical authorization.” Prompt notice helps prevent disputes. Source: notice and DWC‑1 request. For a full walkthrough, see our California filing guide.
Obtain the DWC‑1
Ask for the DWC‑1 claim form, complete it, and keep copies. If your employer doesn’t file promptly, contact the insurer directly. Remember the 30‑day reporting rule. Source: DWC‑1 and filing context. If you have denial concerns, review appeal steps for denied benefits.
Collect key medical records
Gather ER/hospital records, imaging reports (X‑ray/CT/MRI), operative notes, anesthesia records, therapy evaluations and progress notes, work status slips (RTW/no work), prescriptions, and physician progress notes. If a QME/IME occurs, keep those reports too. Make sure dates and provider signatures are visible, and ask providers to document functional limits (e.g., “no lifting >10 lbs,” “no use of dominant hand for 8 weeks”).
Know your provider options
If your employer directs initial treatment through a panel or medical provider network, you may have rights to change doctors within the applicable rules (often after 30 days or pursuant to MPN terms). Source: provider panel rules overview. To understand QME vs. treating physician roles, see what a QME is and how it affects your case.
If denied, activate next steps
Request a written denial, preserve all records, and consider filing an Application for Adjudication with the WCAB. You can also request a medical‑legal evaluation (QME/AME) within statutory timelines. Source: denial and escalation overview. If your checks are delayed, this timing guide helps: how long decisions take and what to do.
Benefits you can expect for a broken bone
Medical benefits
Covers ER/hospital care, imaging (X‑ray/CT/MRI), surgery (e.g., ORIF), medications, physical/occupational therapy, orthotics/orthopedic shoes, and durable medical equipment (crutches, walker). Sources: fracture medical coverage, broken‑bone treatment under comp. If utilization review or IME disputes arise, keep a detailed log, save denials, and ask your physician to write clear medical‑necessity justifications that tie the treatment to your work injury.
Temporary disability (TD)
TD generally pays ~2/3 of your AWW. California has waiting‑period rules: the first 3 days are unpaid unless you miss >14 days, then those first days are paid retroactively. Payments continue until you reach MMI (or statutory caps). Example: if AWW = $900, TD ≈ 2/3 × $900 = $600/week. Sources: TD basics, TD formula and ranges. For duration context, review how long benefits can last in California.
Permanent disability (PD)
Once you reach MMI, a medical evaluator (treating doctor, QME/AME, or IME) assigns an impairment that converts to a PD percentage. That PD% translates to a monetary value, adjusted for apportionment (pre‑existing conditions) and other modifiers. Fractures frequently yield some PPD because of loss of range of motion, grip strength deficit, hardware, deformity, or arthritis risk. Sources: PD after fractures, typical outcomes for broken bones. For payout logic, see calculating a California workers’ comp settlement.
Supplemental Job Displacement / Vocational benefits
If you cannot return to your usual job, you may qualify for an SJDB voucher (up to $5,000) for retraining and related costs. Source: voucher-based retraining. Learn how the voucher works here: Supplemental Job Displacement Benefit California.
Mileage and incidental expenses
Reimbursement for mileage to medical appointments and reasonable incidental expenses is available — track miles, dates, providers, and keep receipts. Source: mileage reimbursement reference. For a practical guide to claiming transportation costs, review California mileage reimbursement for workers’ comp.
Broken-arm-specific considerations
Broken arm at work compensation claims often turn on details like which arm (dominant vs. non‑dominant) and the job’s physical demands. Dominant‑hand injuries can significantly increase wage loss and PD exposure, especially for manual labor roles. For example, a construction laborer with dominant‑hand grip loss can face prolonged modified duty; an office worker with non‑dominant‑hand limits may return earlier with fewer restrictions. See background on arm injuries: arm and elbow injury impacts, and fracture implications: hand/forearm fracture claims, broken-bone claim overview.
Typical medical course for arm fractures:
- Minor (stable): casting 4–6 weeks → PT 4–8 weeks → return to modified duty.
- Moderate (displaced): ORIF → 6–12 weeks of initial healing → therapy and hardware management → MMI in ~3–6 months.
- Severe (comminuted/intra‑articular): staged surgeries possible, longer rehab, arthritis risk → MMI can exceed 6–12 months. Sources: treatment/RTW expectations, healing and disability timelines.
Evidence that strengthens a broken arm claim:
- Physician notes quantifying deficits (grip dynamometer data, range‑of‑motion in degrees), nerve findings, and imaging that shows displacement or hardware.
- Photos of the injury and worksite; witness statements detailing the mechanism; job duty descriptions showing how the arm is used at work.
- Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) or hand therapy functional tests, where indicated. Ask the doctor to tie dominant‑hand loss to essential tasks (e.g., “cannot perform repetitive torqueing or sustained overhead work”).
Leg injury job site settlement
Two settlement types are common in California:
- Compromise & Release (C&R): a lump sum that typically closes out indemnity and future medical. Source: settlement types and ranges.
- Stipulations with Request for Award (RFA): settles PD/indemnity while keeping medical open (useful if you expect ongoing care).
Factors that influence a leg injury job site settlement include age, occupation and work life expectancy, wages and TD history, PD rating percentage, anticipated future medical/surgeries, vocational needs, apportionment for pre‑existing conditions, and life expectancy for future care. A practical approach is to estimate future medical costs + discounted future indemnity + PD value (rating × schedule). Sources: how medical and disability value interact, settlement chart background, and for math context see California settlement calculations.
Illustrative ranges (not guarantees):
- Low severity: simple closed tibia/fibula fracture, non‑surgical, RTW without restrictions → C&R about $20k–$40k. Source: range reference.
- Medium severity: displaced leg fracture requiring ORIF, some wage loss, PD ~15%–25% → C&R about $50k–$60k. Source: range reference.
- High severity: comminuted intra‑articular fracture with arthritis and multiple surgeries → $100k+ possible, with likely retraining voucher. Sources: high-severity context, future care considerations.
Negotiation tips for a leg injury job site settlement:
- Obtain detailed treating‑doctor projections for future medical (e.g., hardware removal, injections, bracing, therapy).
- Secure a vocational evaluation if there is wage loss or a career change.
- Document all surgeries, complications, and durable medical equipment needs; be cautious about closing medical if future care is likely.
Foot fracture work injury benefits
Foot fractures can have outsized long‑term impact because of constant weight‑bearing, joint involvement, altered gait, and arthritis risk. Source: clinical implications for foot/ankle fractures. Typical foot fracture work injury benefits include surgery when indicated, custom orthotics or orthopedic shoes, durable medical equipment (e.g., CAM boot), gait analysis and PT, and PD for gait impairment if residuals persist. Vocational assistance may be available if mobility limits block your prior heavy‑labor job. Sources: foot fracture treatment and PD, vocational supports and benefits.
Documentation tips:
- Request podiatry/orthopedic notes that expressly link the fracture to activity limits (standing, lifting, uneven surfaces).
- Photograph shoe wear patterns and keep receipts for orthotics/shoe modifications; save PT notes showing gait deviations.
- Ask your doctor to include functional language such as: “Because of this calcaneal fracture, the patient will require custom orthotics and should avoid prolonged standing or heavy lifting.”
Evidence checklist & documentation
For a strong fracture injury workers comp claim, compile the following — and keep everything in chronological order:
- Accident report (time/date/location/mechanism): proves notice and context.
- Photos of the scene and injury (timestamped if possible): support mechanism and severity.
- Witness statements with contact info: corroborate events.
- Medical records: ER notes, imaging films/reports, operative and anesthesia notes, PT/OT evaluations and progress notes, prescriptions.
- Work status notes and wage statements (pay stubs, time off records): calculate AWW and TD.
- Employer communications (emails/texts about injury, DWC‑1 exchanges): show timely notice and responses.
- Relevant pre‑injury medical records: allow fair apportionment without overstating pre‑existing conditions.
Organization tips: create a bookmarked PDF “claim file,” maintain digital and paper copies, and produce a one‑page chronology (injury date, first treatment, surgeries, TD start/stop, MMI date, outstanding issues). Sources: documentation best practices, records to keep for fracture claims. If your claim is denied, see how to appeal a denied workers’ comp claim.
Third‑party claims and extra recovery opportunities
A third‑party claim is a lawsuit against someone other than your employer whose negligence caused your injuries — for example, a negligent driver in a delivery crash, a defective ladder manufacturer, or a careless subcontractor. Workers’ comp remains primary for medical/indemnity, but a third‑party action can recover pain and suffering and full wage loss. The comp carrier may assert a lien or credit against your third‑party recovery for benefits paid, so coordinate carefully before signing any releases. Sources: third‑party and lien overview, interplay of comp and third‑party claims.
Immediate steps if you suspect a third party: preserve failed equipment, capture photos/video, list witnesses, avoid informal releases, and notify your carrier and attorney about the potential claim.
When to hire a workers’ comp attorney
Consider counsel if your claim is denied; if surgery is required; if you have a large PD rating; if the carrier is lowballing settlement; if there’s apportionment complexity; if a third‑party claim exists; or if your employer refuses the DWC‑1 or retaliates. Source: when to seek legal help. Typical fee structures in California are contingency‑based and commonly around 15% of settlement, subject to approval. Sources: fees and approvals, common fee context. To understand the medical‑legal process, see how QMEs affect your case.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Will I be paid for my broken arm?
Yes. If your fracture is work‑related, TD pays about two‑thirds of your AWW while you’re off work, and PD may apply after MMI. Source: benefit overview for fractures.
How long until I get TD checks?
California applies a short waiting period; the first 3 days are unpaid unless you miss more than 14 days (then they’re paid retroactively). Carriers typically pay biweekly. Sources: TD waiting period and ranges, benefit mechanics. For expected timelines, see decision timing.
Can I get surgery approved?
Yes, if medically necessary and supported by your treating physician’s documentation. If denied, request a QME/IME or appeal. Source: surgery and dispute process. Learn more about QMEs here: QME in workers’ comp.
What if my employer or insurer denies the claim?
File an Application with the WCAB, gather medical evidence, and consider legal counsel to pursue a hearing or settlement. Source: denial next steps. See appealing a denied claim for a step‑by‑step path.
How are leg injury settlements valued?
Value depends on PD rating, future medical needs, age/occupation, and wage loss — typical ranges can span $20k–$100k+ depending on severity. Source: settlement chart ranges. See also California settlement chart explained.
Will workers’ comp cover orthotics or a shoe allowance for a foot fracture?
Often yes, when medically necessary; foot fracture work injury benefits may include custom orthotics, shoe allowances, and mobility devices. Source: foot fracture supports. For claiming travel reimbursements to appointments, see mileage reimbursement guidance.
Practical timeline & expectations for a fracture claim
- Day 0–1: Injury → emergency/initial care → notify employer → obtain and submit DWC‑1. Source: day‑one steps.
- Week 1: Imaging (X‑ray/CT), initial restrictions; TD may begin if you’re off work.
- Weeks 2–8: Casting or immediate post‑op care; TD continues. Surgeries for displaced fractures often occur within weeks 1–4.
- Months 1–6: PT/OT, progressive RTW with restrictions; complex fractures may need extended rehab.
- 3–12+ months: Many fractures reach MMI; PD rating occurs via QME/AME or treating physician. Settlement negotiations or WCAB hearings may follow. Source: healing and MMI windows.
Approximate total durations: minor = 3–6 months; moderate = 6–12 months; severe = 12–24+ months. If disputes arise or checks are late, see what to do about late payments.
Resources & next steps
Use the steps above to report, document, and treat your fracture quickly. Keep receipts for mileage and orthotics, log work status notes, and track therapy progress. If you need to understand ratings and settlement ranges as you approach MMI, consult recognized California references (e.g., settlement charts) and consider a vocational evaluation if you cannot return to your prior job. For a refresher on filing mechanics, see how to file a California workers’ comp claim and, if needed, how to appeal if you’re denied.
Conclusion
Fracture claims can feel overwhelming, but prompt reporting, thorough documentation, and accurate medical evidence will help you secure the medical care, TD, and PD you deserve — especially for broken arm at work compensation where dominant‑hand function and job demands matter. If surgery, future medical, or third‑party issues complicate your case, don’t wait to get guidance you can trust.
Need help now? Get a free and instant case evaluation by Visionary Law Group. See if your case qualifies within 30-seconds at https://eval.visionarylawgroup.com/work-comp.
FAQ
What should I do first after a work-related fracture?
Get medical care immediately, report the injury in writing to your employer, request a DWC‑1, and keep copies of all records and work status notes. Early care and notice protect your health and your claim.
How is my TD rate calculated?
TD generally pays about two‑thirds of your AWW, subject to state min/max and a short waiting period; if you’re off more than 14 days, the first 3 days are paid retroactively.
Do I have to treat with my employer’s doctors?
Initial care is often through an employer panel or network, but you may have rights to change physicians under California rules. Check your MPN notice and timelines.
When does a PD rating happen?
After you reach MMI, your treating doctor or a QME/AME issues an impairment that converts to a PD percentage — which translates into a dollar value for settlement or award.
Can I pursue a lawsuit against someone who caused my fracture?
Yes, if a third party (not your employer) was negligent — for example, a driver or a defective equipment manufacturer — you may bring a separate claim while coordinating with your workers’ comp benefits and any carrier lien.
