NINA GOODRICH vs. UNILAB/QUEST DIAGNOSTICS, SEDGWICK CLAIMS MANAGEMENT SERVICES, AMERICAN CASUALTY CO. OF READING, PA, CNA CLAIMSPLUS, VALLEY HEALTH SYSTEMS, TRISTAR RISK MANAGEMENT, ZURICH INSURANCE CO.
This case concerns a dispute over contribution claims following a cumulative injury to the applicant. The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board granted reconsideration, rescinded an arbitration finding, and remanded the matter for further proceedings. The Board found that Sedgwick, which paid over $180,000 in benefits, was not required to file a petition for contribution under section 5500.5 because it was not a signatory to the Compromise and Release (C&R). Furthermore, the Board held that even if Sedgwick had been required to file, the co-defendant CNA would be estopped from asserting the statute of limitations due to stipulations in the C&R reserving contribution rights. The Board concluded Sedgwick's claim for reimbursement was not time-barred.