The Illinois Industrial Commission ruled that claimant’s
activity of closing an elevated cab door placed him in an awkward
twisting and rotating position, thereby increasing his risk of injury
beyond that of the general public.
Claimant
testified he exited the driver’s side of a truck cab and was facing the
door. As he shut the door, he pivoted to his right. He immediately
experienced pain in his low back. He was diagnosed with a herniated disc
and underwent two surgeries and a course of physical therapy.
The
arbitrator awarded temporary total and permanent partial disability
benefits along with medical expenses, finding claimant’s activity of
closing the elevated cab door placed him in an awkward twisting and
rotating position. The position increased the risk of injury to claimant
beyond that of the general public.
Upon review,
the Commission affirmed and adopted the decision of the arbitrator.
