Chris Hale — ADJ11219024

Chris Hale, a former professional football player, claimed cumulative injury to his brain, nervous system, and psyche while employed by the Buffalo Bills, Denver Broncos, and Houston Oilers from 1989 to 1994. The WCJ found that the WCAB had personal and subject matter jurisdiction over the Houston Oilers and Travelers, and that the QME reports of Dr. Halote (neuropsychology) and Dr. Nudleman (neurology) were obtained in violation of Labor Code section 4062.2 and thus inadmissible. Both applicant and Houston Oilers/Travelers sought reconsideration. On reconsideration, the Board affirmed jurisdiction over applicant's entire claim including the Houston Oilers, but amended the F&O to defer the issues of injury AOE/COE, the section 5412 date of injury, and the admissibility of the QME reports, returning the matter to the WCJ for further proceedings including potential development of the record through an AME, QME, or regular physician.