JULIE PETERS vs. PANERA BREAD, Permissibly Self-Insured

The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board granted reconsideration of an administrative law judge's award, finding that the record on permanent disability and apportionment was insufficiently developed. While the judge found the defendant's Agreed Medical Evaluator's apportionment opinion unsubstantial, they erred by issuing an unapportioned award without further record development. The Board will defer permanent disability and apportionment for further development, potentially with a new physician, to ensure substantial justice and allow parties to meet their respective burdens. The issues of attorney fees and the EDD lien are also deferred.