On July 23, 2026, the WCIRB released its 2026 State of the System report. Premium growth had leveled as rates stabilized. Rising cumulative trauma claims were still pushing frequency. Average medical costs were up in several service categories. Allocated loss-adjustment expense was at record highs. The combined ratio remained near historically high levels.
Later coverage put the 2025 accident-year combined ratio at 127%, written premium around $15.6 billion, and the average charged rate at a 50-year low. That mix — cheap charged rates, expensive claims — is why September 1 advisory increases exist.
For a Chula Vista contractor the report is not academic. Frequency from cumulative trauma is the claim that shows up after someone leaves the job, with an attorney, and stays open for years. Report injuries when they happen. Keep job descriptions. Do not let the first notice be an application for adjudication.
If this is on your renewal, call the office at (619) 420-8600 or start a quote. We will tell you what the market will actually write.
Sources: WCIRB, July 23, 2026; Insurance Journal, August 17, 2026.