An armored truck driver who injured her right hand while unloading boxes of quarters was awarded temporary total disability and surgery by an arbitrator. Ankin Law attorney, Josh Rudolfi was able to show that the driver was entitled to TTD as well as thumb release and carpal tunnel release surgeries. Her employer was also ordered to pay necessary medical services of $13,548.98.
The temporary total disability benefits of $533.33/week for 33 5/7 weeks, cover the time period, 10/23/2021 through 6/16/2022
The driver explained that she was unloading a box of quarters in the back of the armored truck when the box started to slip, causing her to grab it with her right hand, immediately feeling burning and pain. After almost a year of doctor visits and therapy, she stated she would have the surgeries performed immediately if the Arbitrator were to award them.
(Read the full Arbitrator Decision Below)
Below is an excerpt from the arbitrator’s decision detailing the accident:
STATEMENT OF FACTS
Petitioner (armored truck driver) has worked for Respondent (Garda World Security Services) a driver messenger for 11 years. Transcript of Arbitration hereinafter referred to as “R”. Petitioner travels around in an armored truck making deliveries and picking up money for the Respondent. Petitioner was working as a driver messenger for Respondent on October 6, 2021, and injured her right hand. The petitioner testified that she was unloading a box of quarters in the back of the armored truck when the box started to slip, causing her to grab it with her right hand, immediately feeling burning and pain. The box weighed approximately 20-30 lbs. Petitioner completed her shift, notified her employer, and was sent to Concentra Medical Center that night. Notice of the accident is not in dispute. Arb. Ex. #1.
The petitioner was seen at Concentra Medical Center (Concentra) at 4:28 am on October 7, 2021. Pet. Ex. #1. Petitioner reported that she had injured her right thumb and hand while unloading boxes of coins the day before and complained of pain in the right thumb and right forearm. Petitioner was provided a splint and a referral for occupational therapy, which she began the next day on October 8, 2021, at the same clinic. Petitioner was returned to work on modified duty, which her employer was able to provide at that time.
