Richard Horton vs. Crown Cork and Seal, American Protection Insurance Company, BROADSPIRE, Travelers Property Casualty Company of America

This case concerns defendant American Protection Insurance Company's (APIC) petition for contribution from Travelers Insurance Company for benefits paid to applicant Richard Horton. The Arbitrator denied APIC's petition, finding contribution was precluded because a prior stipulated award did not grant "new and distinct benefits." The Appeals Board granted reconsideration, rescinding the Arbitrator's decision. The Board determined that a supplemental award granting new and further permanent disability, including a psyche injury claim, constituted new and distinct benefits subject to contribution, even if the original award was time-barred. The matter was returned for further proceedings to determine the extent of APIC's contribution rights.