TRANSMITTAL LETTER FOR BOARD MEETING OF MAY 3, 2012
COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
Mr. David St. Pierre, Executive Director
Title
Authority to settle the Workers' Compensation claim of Robert Dixon v. MWRDGC, Case No. 10 WC 26850, Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission, in the sum of $46,204.69. Account 901-30000-901
Body
Dear Sir:
Robert Dixon is an Electrical Instrument and Testing Mechanic who was employed at the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant on May 3, 2010, when he slipped and fell in an oily substance on the floor in the Trades Shop. He twisted his left ankle and knee and was diagnosed with a tibial plateau fracture at the emergency room. The doctor placed him on crutches, and Mr. Dixon was restricted from weight bearing activity. He began to lose time as of May 4, 2010. After an MRI ruled out a tendon or ligament injury to the ankle and foot, he was treated conservatively and released back to work as of August 2, 2010. He continued to have pain in the knee and was referred to an orthopedic specialist in September 2010. The specialist diagnosed a left knee medial meniscal tear which was repaired on September 23, 2010. Mr. Dixon was totally disabled at that time until he was released to return to work again on November 8, 2010. He missed 135 days from work.
Mr. Dixon filed an Application of Adjustment of Claim with the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission and is represented by an attorney. The case was heard on a pre-trial motion in December 2011. The arbitrator opined that loss of use value would exceed $55,000.00 if the case were taken to trial. Upon approval from the Board, this claim can now be settled for a total of $46,204.69. This equates to 30% loss of use of the left leg and 3% loss of use of the left foot.
The General Counsel believes this settlement is in the best interests of the District and requests payment of that sum be approved and he be authorized to execute such documents as may be necessary to effect the settlement.
Requested, Ronald M. Hill, General Counsel, RMH:LJH:EW:nm
Respectfully Submitted, Terrence J. O'Brien, Chairman Committee on Judiciary
Disposition of this agenda item will be documented in the official Regular Board Meeting Minutes of the Board of Commissioners for May 3, 2012