JOSE MEJIA vs. JB CRITCHLEY, INC., AMERICAN CLAIMS MANAGEMENT
The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board granted reconsideration to clarify that the defendant's prior appeals regarding the applicant's stipulated average weekly wage and permanent disability rate were exhausted and that the award was final as of October 2, 2024. The Board affirmed the imposition of penalties under Labor Code section 5814 and attorney fees under section 5814.5 due to the defendant's unreasonable delay in paying the final award. The defendant's arguments regarding seasonal employment and extrinsic mistake were rejected as the stipulated wages and findings were final and not adequately supported for setting aside. The original Findings and Award were rescinded and substituted to reflect the finality of the prior decision and the confirmed penalties and fees.