Permanent Disability Secured for Injured Deputy After Employer Disputes Claim
Permanent Disability Secured for Injured Deputy After Employer Disputes Claim
Background
A patrol deputy was injured during a school field trip when a bus stopped abruptly, throwing her into the stairwell. She suffered vestibular dysfunction, chronic pain, and psychiatric conditions. Though initially returning in light duty, her condition worsened until her neurologist placed her on no-work status. The employer still refused PTD benefits.
The Challenge
- Employer claimed she was not permanently disabled and could work in sedentary jobs
- Argued her psychiatric and physical symptoms weren’t severe enough
- Alleged voluntary income limitation and insufficient job search
- Used conflicting medical opinions and surveillance footage
Our Strategy
- Introduced strong medical evidence from treating physicians
- Showed she had been under no-work orders since 2020
- Presented Expert Medical Advisor (EMA) confirming her inability to maintain employment
- Vocational expert testified her impairments made her unemployable
- Rebutted employer’s credibility attacks, proving no voluntary income limitation existed
The Result
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD) benefits granted from June 30, 2022 to present
- Supplemental benefits, penalties, and interest awarded
- Attorney’s fees and costs approved
- Employer defenses fully rejected
Why It Matters
This case shows that invisible injuries—like chronic pain and trauma—deserve equal protection. Touby, Chait & Sicking, PL delivered a life-changing outcome for a deputy who had already sacrificed so much.
If your benefits have been denied or underpaid, reach out today at (305) 257-9472.