Home/Case Law/MICHAEL FISHEL vs. RICK'S LUBE AND COMPLETE AUTO, OAK RIVER INSURANCE COMPANY
Regular DecisionRegular Panel Decision

MICHAEL FISHEL vs. RICK'S LUBE AND COMPLETE AUTO, OAK RIVER INSURANCE COMPANY

Filed: Jun 23, 2025
Santa Ana
ADJ11053430; ADJ14397522

CompFox AI Summary

Applicant Michael Fishel, an auto mechanic, sustained an injury to his back and other body parts on August 18, 2017, while employed by Rick's Lube and Complete Auto, insured by Oak River Insurance Company. The case involved extensive litigation concerning the necessity of lumbar spine surgery and the waiver of the Utilization Review/Independent Medical Review process, leading to the appointment of Dr. Laura Hatch. The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board granted the defendant's petition for reconsideration, rescinding and substituting a prior Findings and Award. The Board's decision clarified Dr. Hatch's appointment date and the scope of her evaluation, ultimately upholding the award for the applicant's lumbar spine surgery based on Dr. Hatch's medical opinions.

MICHAEL FISHEL vs. RICK'S LUBE AND COMPLETE AUTO, OAK RIVER INSURANCE COMPANY is a workers' compensation case decided in Santa Ana. 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 Santa Ana.

Full Decision Text1 Pages

Applicant Michael Fishel, an auto mechanic, sustained an injury to his back and other body parts on August 18, 2017, while employed by Rick's Lube and Complete Auto, insured by Oak River Insurance Company. The case involved extensive litigation concerning the necessity of lumbar spine surgery and the waiver of the Utilization Review/Independent Medical Review process, leading to the appointment of Dr. Laura Hatch. The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board granted the defendant's petition for reconsideration, rescinding and substituting a prior Findings and Award. The Board's decision clarified Dr. Hatch's appointment date and the scope of her evaluation, ultimately upholding the award for the applicant's lumbar spine surgery based on Dr. Hatch's medical opinions.

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MICHAEL FISHEL vs. RICK'S LUBE AND COMPLETE AUTO, OAK RIVER INSURANCE COMPANY workers compensation case in Santa Ana. Legal case summary, ruling, and analysis for attorneys and legal research.

MICHAEL FISHEL vs. RICK'S LUBE AND COMPLETE AUTO, OAK RIVER INSURANCE COMPANY case law summary from Santa Ana. Workers compensation legal decision, case analysis, and court ruling details.

MICHAEL FISHEL vs. RICK'S LUBE AND COMPLETE AUTO, OAK RIVER INSURANCE COMPANY Case Analysis

MICHAEL FISHEL vs. RICK'S LUBE AND COMPLETE AUTO, OAK RIVER INSURANCE COMPANY is a legal case related to workers' compensation in Santa Ana. This case explains important rulings, legal interpretations, and claim decisions.

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