Injured Worker v. Ford of Santa Monica Inc., SIBTF

Practice Area: SIBTFWorkers Compensation
Date: May 3rd, 2024
Outcome: SIBTF award for 100% disability (Estimated value in excess of $ 1,300,000)

The injured worker sustained an industrial injury while working as a service advisor at Ford Santa Monica to his lumbar spine on 6/30/2011, which was settled by stipulations at 39% permanent disability. Additionally, the worker suffered an industrial injury with cumulative trauma from 7/14/2010 to 7/14/2011, affecting both wrists/hands, leading to a settlement by stipulation at 17% permanent disability on 11/27/2019.

After the settlement of his workers’ compensation case, his previous attorney filed an SIBTF claim on 5/11/2020. The applicant was referred to Silberman & Lam, LLP in 2023 to continue pursuing the claim. The applicant had preexisting conditions, including psychological issues, hypertension, GERD, a left shoulder injury, and headaches.

Silberman & Lam, LLP was able to secure an award of 100% disability against the SIBTF. The injured worker was entitled to back benefits totaling $463,809.37 and weekly benefits of $1,497.71, with annual increases plus cost-of-living adjustments (COLA). The present estimated value of this award exceeds $1,300,000.00, based on the applicant’s average life expectancy.