Link for CA DI:
http://www.edd.ca.gov/disability/dis..._insurance.htm

Instead of a complex disability process, "Your doctor must complete the medical certification of your disability."

You can't work PT.
You have to file within 49 days of stopping work.
You will only be able to collect it for 12 months.
File even if you're currently receiving WC, since you might have a period that you're benefits are interrupted, etc. It will protect your rights even if you don't collect for years.