STEVE GITTINGS vs. CENTRAL VALLEY LABELS, NATIONAL LIABILITY AND FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY, BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESTATE COMPANIES, STAR INSURANCE COMPANY

This case concerns an applicant seeking workers' compensation benefits for back injuries. The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board affirmed a prior decision finding that the applicant sustained a cumulative trauma injury ending April 11, 2012, resulting in 17% permanent disability. The Board upheld the finding that a prior specific injury on April 15, 2005, did not cause permanent disability. The Board found the Agreed Medical Examiner's (AME) opinions to be well-reasoned and substantial evidence, while rejecting the opinions of the Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) on the issue of apportionment due to inconsistencies and a refusal to provide a definitive apportionment.