If you’re recovering from a work-related injury in California, your medical care is covered by workers’ comp. But what about the cost of getting to and from your appointments?
Under California law, you are entitled to mileage reimbursement for travel related to your workers’ compensation claim — and it can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars over time.
At Employees First Labor Law, we help injured workers recover every dollar they’re owed, including overlooked benefits like mileage reimbursement.
🔹 What Does Mileage Reimbursement Cover?
You may be reimbursed for roundtrip travel to and from any of the following:
- Treating doctors or clinics authorized by workers’ comp
- Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) or Agreed Medical Evaluator (AME) exams
- Diagnostic testing (MRI, X-ray, CT scan, etc.)
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation appointments
- Pharmacy trips to pick up prescribed medications
📌 Even parking fees, tolls, or public transportation may be reimbursed — if properly documented.
🔹 What Is the Current Mileage Rate?
As of 2025, California’s workers’ compensation mileage reimbursement rate is $0.67 per mile (subject to change yearly based on IRS guidelines).
Example:
If you drive 20 miles roundtrip to see your doctor, you’re entitled to $13.40 for that visit alone.
🔹 How Do I Claim Mileage Reimbursement?
To get reimbursed, you must:
- Use the official DWC Form 395 — also known as the Mileage Reimbursement Form
- Record the date, destination, roundtrip miles, and purpose (e.g., “QME exam”)
- Submit it to your claims administrator — ideally within 30 days of the appointment
You may also submit receipts for parking, public transit, or rideshare if applicable.
🔹 What If My Reimbursement Is Denied or Delayed?
Insurance carriers may:
- Deny mileage due to “unauthorized” visits
- Delay payments or lose your forms
- Reimburse partial amounts
That’s where Employees First Labor Law comes in. We can:
- Challenge improper denials
- Demand timely reimbursement under Labor Code §4600
- File for penalties or sanctions if the insurer repeatedly delays payment
🔹 Why These Benefits Matter
Injured workers already face lost income, pain, and stress. Out-of-pocket travel costs only add insult to injury. You’re entitled to full compensation — not just for treatment, but for accessing that treatment.
If your employer or insurer tries to minimize or delay these payments, we can hold them accountable.
🔹 Why Choose Employees First Labor Law?
We don’t just fight for major settlements — we make sure every aspect of your claim is honored, including:
- Unpaid mileage and transportation costs
- Missed reimbursement deadlines
- Additional compensation for bad faith handling of your case
And if your employer retaliates, pressures you to skip appointments, or tries to fire you for “missing work,” our employment litigation team steps in to pursue civil damages under FEHA and Labor Code §132a.
From mileage reimbursement to wrongful termination, we’ve got your back — and we don’t leave money on the table.
✅ Get Help Now
If you’re not receiving proper mileage reimbursement or facing barriers to medical care, contact Employees First Labor Law today. We’ll handle the legal fight so you can focus on healing.
