How Long Can I Stay on Workers’ Comp With a Spinal Cord Injury in CA?

 Posted on June 23, 2025 in Workplace Injuries

A spinal cord injury can happen in an instant, causing chronic pain or loss of function that can last a lifetime. These injuries often require long-term medical care and prevent you from returning to work for months or years. If you have been hurt on the job, an experienced Hollister, CA workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand how long you can receive benefits and how California law protects your right to support during recovery.

How Long Does Workers’ Compensation Cover Spinal Injuries in California?

Under California Labor Code § 4656, most injured workers can receive Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits for a single injury for up to 104 weeks within two years from the date of injury. These benefits help replace lost wages while you recover and are unable to work. However, spinal cord injuries are often serious enough to qualify for extended benefits. If your injury involves paralysis, significant nerve damage, or other severe neurological complications, you may be eligible to receive TTD for longer. As of January 1, 2025, the minimum weekly TTD benefit is $252.03.

What if My Spinal Injury Causes Permanent Disability?

Once your condition stabilizes and your physician determines that you have reached the maximum medical improvement, your eligibility for TTD will likely end. You may then be able to start the process of assessing permanent disability.

Your doctor will evaluate the extent of your permanent limitations and issue a disability rating. This rating, along with factors such as your age, occupation, and the date of your injury, will be used to calculate the amount and duration of your permanent disability benefits. These benefits are intended to compensate you for the permanent impact your injury has on your ability to earn a living, even if you are able to return to some form of work.

Can the Insurance Company End My Workers’ Compensation Benefits Early?

The insurance company can end your workers’ compensation benefits, but not without cause or proper procedure. They are required to notify you of their decision and the reason for it, and if you disagree, you have the right to challenge their decision through an appeals process.

You can also request a second opinion through a qualified medical evaluator or an agreed medical evaluator, both are physicians who conduct independent medical evaluations to resolve disputes related to an injured worker’s medical condition and benefits. These evaluations can be complex, but working with an experienced attorney ensures you have someone to guide you through the process.

Contact a San Benito County, CA Workers' Compensation Attorney for a Free Consultation

At Cramer + Martinez, our firm has served clients for nearly 30 years, and our team of attorneys brings more than two decades of combined experience in California workers’ compensation law. Whether your claim is just beginning or you are facing denied or reduced benefits, our Hollister, CA workers’ compensation lawyers are ready to help. Contact us at 408-848-1113 for a free consultation and let us fight for the support you need.