Taylor, Eric

Applicant Eric Taylor, a longtime police officer for the City of Watsonville and later Deputy Sheriff/Sheriff for the County of San Benito, had six consolidated claims involving orthopedic injuries and cardiac/hypertension conditions. On May 2, 2025, the WCJ found 100% permanent and total disability by adding (rather than combining via the CVC) the disability ratings across successive injuries, placed liability on the County of San Benito under section 5500.5, and allowed for potential contribution from the City. Both defendants sought reconsideration, challenging the additive rating method, the finding of total disability while applicant continues to work, the commencement date of indemnity, and the contribution/joint-and-several liability issues. The Appeals Board granted both petitions for reconsideration and deferred a final decision pending further review of the merits and possible further development of the record, citing its en banc Vigil decision regarding CVC rebuttal and the interplay of sections 5500.5 and 4663(e).