The Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau of California (WCIRB) has released Drivers of California Claim Duration. This report describes duration drivers for California workers' compensation claims, including how claim duration differs regionally across the state. 

The full report is available in the Research section of the WCIRB website and at the following link: 

• Drivers of California Claim Duration 

Highlights of the report include: 

• It takes seven years to close 90 percent of claims in California compared to three years for the median state. 
• Longer California claim duration is driven by four “duration drivers," including ​a higher share of permanent partial disability (PPD) and cumulative trauma claims in California, a greater utilization of medical-legal services in California and regional differences within the state. 
• Claim closing rates increased steadily following the reforms of Senate Bill No. 863, particularly for PPD claims of lower-wage workers. ​ 
• Claim closing rates declined during the pandemic in 2020 and were relatively flat in 2021. 

WCIRB Research Forum Webinar 

The WCIRB hosted a free webinar to discuss Drivers of California Claim Duration. Click on the link below to register. 

Drivers of California Claim Duration 
Tuesday, December 13, 2022, 10:00 – 10:45 AM PT 
View recording (registration required)

A recording is also posted in the Research section of the WCIRB website.