Home/Case Law/MICHAEL FISHEL vs. RICK'S LUBE AND COMPLETE AUTO, OAK RIVER INSURANCE COMPANY
Regular DecisionRegular Panel Decision

MICHAEL FISHEL vs. RICK'S LUBE AND COMPLETE AUTO, OAK RIVER INSURANCE COMPANY

Filed: Jun 23, 2025
Santa Ana
ADJ11053430; ADJ14397522

CompFox AI Summary

Applicant Michael Fishel, an auto mechanic, sustained an injury to his back and other body parts on August 18, 2017, while employed by Rick's Lube and Complete Auto, insured by Oak River Insurance Company. The case involved extensive litigation concerning the necessity of lumbar spine surgery and the waiver of the Utilization Review/Independent Medical Review process, leading to the appointment of Dr. Laura Hatch. The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board granted the defendant's petition for reconsideration, rescinding and substituting a prior Findings and Award. The Board's decision clarified Dr. Hatch's appointment date and the scope of her evaluation, ultimately upholding the award for the applicant's lumbar spine surgery based on Dr. Hatch's medical opinions.

Full Decision Text1 Pages

Applicant Michael Fishel, an auto mechanic, sustained an injury to his back and other body parts on August 18, 2017, while employed by Rick's Lube and Complete Auto, insured by Oak River Insurance Company. The case involved extensive litigation concerning the necessity of lumbar spine surgery and the waiver of the Utilization Review/Independent Medical Review process, leading to the appointment of Dr. Laura Hatch. The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board granted the defendant's petition for reconsideration, rescinding and substituting a prior Findings and Award. The Board's decision clarified Dr. Hatch's appointment date and the scope of her evaluation, ultimately upholding the award for the applicant's lumbar spine surgery based on Dr. Hatch's medical opinions.

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MICHAEL FISHEL vs. RICK'S LUBE AND COMPLETE AUTO, OAK RIVER INSURANCE COMPANY (2025) – Santa Ana | CompFox