Occupational Cancer Workers' Compensation in Modesto, California

David Lamonica, Esq. · California Workers' Compensation Attorney
Reviewed by David Lamonica, Esq. · Board Certified Workers' Compensation Specialist
Published January 1, 2025
Updated February 5, 2026

Quick Answer

Occupational Cancer claims are reported by workers across Modesto, with settlements typically ranging from $250,000–$1,500,000+. The average workers' compensation settlement in Modesto is $55,600. Your case will be heard at the WCAB office at 3021 Reynolds Ranch Pkwy, Suite 130, Lodi, CA 95240. An experienced attorney who knows the Modesto board can help you maximize your recovery.

Key Takeaways

  • Occupational Cancer settlement values in California range from $250,000–$1,500,000+
  • Modesto area settlements average $55,600 across all injury types
  • Your WCAB office: 3021 Reynolds Ranch Pkwy, Suite 130, Lodi, CA 95240
  • Report injuries to your employer within 30 days and file a DWC-1 claim form
  • Free consultation available — represented workers recover 3-5x more on average
  • File immediately upon learning your cancer may be work-related - the one-year deadline starts when you know

Occupational Cancer Settlement Range

$250,000–$1,500,000+

Modesto avg. across all injuries: $55,600

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Modesto WCAB Office

3021 Reynolds Ranch Pkwy, Suite 130, Lodi, CA 95240 (209) 948-7759

Served by the Lodi WCAB office (formerly Stockton, relocated Dec 2023). 30-minute drive from Modesto via CA-99. Ample free parking.

Occupational Cancer Symptoms to Document

Varies by cancer type

Each occupational cancer has specific symptoms related to the affected organ system

Respiratory symptoms (lung cancers)

Persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing blood, wheezing

Abdominal symptoms (mesothelioma)

Abdominal pain, swelling, weight loss, bowel changes for peritoneal mesothelioma

Blood abnormalities (leukemia)

Fatigue, frequent infections, easy bruising, unexplained bleeding, bone pain

Urinary symptoms (bladder cancer)

Blood in urine, frequent urination, painful urination, lower back pain

Skin changes (skin cancer)

New growths, changing moles, non-healing sores, particularly in sun and chemical-exposed areas

General cancer symptoms

Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, night sweats, fever, loss of appetite

Neurological symptoms (brain tumors)

Headaches, seizures, vision changes, personality changes, motor difficulties

Treatment Options Covered by Workers' Comp

Surgery

Removal of tumors and affected tissue when cancer is localized and operable

Typical timeline: Recovery 4-12 weeks depending on surgery type

Covered

Chemotherapy

Systemic drug treatment to kill cancer cells and prevent spread

Typical timeline: Multiple cycles over 3-6 months, may be ongoing

Covered

Radiation therapy

Targeted radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors

Typical timeline: Daily treatments over 4-8 weeks

Covered

Immunotherapy

Treatment boosting the immune system to fight cancer

Typical timeline: Ongoing infusions, may continue for years

Covered

Factors That Affect Your Occupational Cancer Settlement in Modesto

Type of cancer

Mesothelioma is almost always occupational; other cancers require stronger causation evidence

Mesothelioma: $750,000-$2,000,000+ vs. Lung cancer: $300,000-$1,000,000

Strength of exposure evidence

Documented exposure records, witness testimony, and employment history strengthen claims

Asbestos worker with documented exposure: strong claim vs. minimal exposure records: disputed

Prognosis and survival

Terminal diagnoses with poor prognosis result in faster and often higher settlements

Mesothelioma (median survival 12-18 months) often settles quickly for maximum value

Statutory presumptions

California firefighters and certain workers have presumption their cancer is occupational

Firefighter with lung cancer has presumption shifting burden to insurance company

Filing Your Occupational Cancer Claim in Modesto

  • File immediately upon learning your cancer may be work-related - the one-year deadline starts when you know
  • Document your complete work history going back decades, including all potential exposure jobs
  • Gather employment records, union records, and any documentation of chemical or substance exposure
  • Obtain written opinions from your oncologist specifically addressing occupational causation
  • Research your former employers' products and known carcinogen use
  • Contact former coworkers who can testify to workplace conditions and exposures
  • If you worked with asbestos, identify specific asbestos products and manufacturers
  • Check if you qualify for statutory presumption (firefighters, law enforcement)
  • Consult with attorneys who specialize in both workers' comp AND toxic tort/asbestos litigation
  • Apply for Social Security Disability if your cancer prevents you from working
  • The Modesto WCAB office is at 3021 Reynolds Ranch Pkwy, Suite 130, Lodi, CA 95240 — arrive early as parking can be limited.

Occupational Cancer Claims in Nearby Cities

Other Workplace Injuries in Modesto

View all Modesto workers' comp info →

Occupational Cancer in Modesto FAQ

What is the average occupational cancer workers' comp settlement in Modesto?

Occupational Cancer settlements in California typically range from $250,000–$1,500,000+. The overall average settlement in Modesto is $55,600. Your actual settlement depends on factors including your wages, the severity of your disability rating, your age, occupation, and the quality of your medical evidence.

Where do I file a occupational cancer workers' comp claim in Modesto?

Modesto workers' compensation claims are handled at the WCAB office at 3021 Reynolds Ranch Pkwy, Suite 130, Lodi, CA 95240. Phone: (209) 948-7759. First, report your injury to your employer within 30 days, then complete the DWC-1 form they are required to give you within one business day of your report.

How long does a occupational cancer workers' comp case take in Modesto?

Most occupational cancer cases take 12-24 months to resolve, though complex cases can take longer. The Modesto WCAB caseload affects scheduling. Having an experienced attorney who regularly appears at the Modesto board can help move your case forward efficiently.

Injured at Work in Modesto?

Our attorneys handle occupational cancer claims at the Modesto WCAB regularly. We understand local procedures, know the judges, and fight for maximum compensation. Free consultation — no fees unless we win.

Settlement values are estimates based on historical California workers' compensation data and are not guarantees. Every case is unique. Consult with an attorney for advice specific to your situation.

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