Darrell Carter — ADJ11324273, ADJ11728160

Applicant Darrell Carter sustained both a specific injury (9/20/2016) and a cumulative trauma injury to his bilateral wrists/hands and other body parts while working as a truck driver/crane operator. The WCJ found 57% permanent disability in the cumulative trauma claim (ADJ11728160) based on AMA Guides impairments from PQMEs Dr. Schwartz (orthopedic) and Dr. Weingarten (internal). Applicant sought reconsideration arguing entitlement to 100% disability under the conclusive presumption of Labor Code section 4662(a)(2) for loss of both hands or the use thereof, or alternatively that he rebutted the PDRS. The WCAB denied reconsideration, finding the medical and vocational evidence insufficient to support either theory. The Board held the AMA Guides ratings were unrebutted prima facie correct evidence, and that applicant retained some use of his hands (motor strength, ability to do small jobs) defeating the 4662(a)(2) presumption.