CompFox AI Summary
Employee Steven Ratliff developed PTSD after witnessing two fatal work accidents in February and April 2008. He was diagnosed with PTSD on June 23, 2008, and filed a workers' compensation claim one year later. The employer, Gerdau Ameristeel, Inc., argued the claim was barred by the statute of limitations, which they contended began on the date of the second accident. The trial court initially granted summary judgment to the employer. The Supreme Court reversed, holding that the statute of limitations commences when the employee discovers or reasonably should have discovered a compensable injury, which was the diagnosis date of June 23, 2008. The case was remanded for the trial court to award Mr. Ratliff 20% permanent partial disability benefits.
Gerdau Ameristeel, Inc. v. Steven Ratliff is a workers' compensation case decided in Tennessee Supreme Court. This case addresses legal issues related to compensation claims, benefits, and court rulings.
It is commonly referenced in legal research involving workers' compensation laws in Tennessee Supreme Court.
Full Decision Text1 Pages
Employee Steven Ratliff developed PTSD after witnessing two fatal work accidents in February and April 2008. He was diagnosed with PTSD on June 23, 2008, and filed a workers' compensation claim one year later. The employer, Gerdau Ameristeel, Inc., argued the claim was barred by the statute of limitations, which they contended began on the date of the second accident. The trial court initially granted summary judgment to the employer. The Supreme Court reversed, holding that the statute of limitations commences when the employee discovers or reasonably should have discovered a compensable injury, which was the diagnosis date of June 23, 2008. The case was remanded for the trial court to award Mr. Ratliff 20% permanent partial disability benefits.
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