Hampton V. Big Boy Steel Erection

In this workers' compensation case, Big Boy Steel Erection (employer) appeals from the final award of the Labor and Industrial Relations Commission (commission) allowing compensation and modifying the award of the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The ALJ found that Larry Hampton (claimant) had sustained a 25% permanent partial disability of the body as a whole, caused by an injury he sustained to his back while working as an ironworker. The commission modified the award and found permanent and total disability. The employer appeals, contending that the commission erred in awarding permanent total disability benefits because the award was not supported by competent and substantial evidence and the award was against the overwhelming weight of the evidence.