Attorney Chuck Pappas successfully represented a delivery driver in his Massachusetts workers’ compensation claim. This worker was employed by a major package delivery and logistics company and was seriously injured while performing his job duties. The employee was loading packages into his delivery vehicle at a loading dock when a co-worker unexpectedly pulled the vehicle forward. With no warning and no opportunity to protect himself, the employee fell from the loading dock to the ground below.
This workplace accident caused immediate and significant pain and instability in the employee’s left ankle, forcing him to seek emergency medical treatment.
The Injuries and Extensive Medical Treatment
Following the fall, the injured worker was transported to the emergency department at Clinton Hospital, where physicians suspected a fracture of the left ankle and referred him to an orthopedic surgeon for further evaluation.
The orthopedic specialist ordered an MRI of the left ankle, which revealed a partial tear of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a thick, fibrous band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. It plays a critical role in supporting the arch of the foot and absorbing shock during walking and standing. A tear of the plantar fascia can cause chronic pain, instability, difficulty walking, and long-term functional limitations – especially for workers whose jobs require standing, lifting, or walking.
Initially, the orthopedic surgeon recommended conservative treatment, including physical therapy and cortisone injections. Unfortunately, these measures failed to relieve the employee’s symptoms or restore functional stability.
As a result, surgery became medically necessary. The employee ultimately underwent a complex left ankle surgical procedure that included:
- Left ankle arthroscopic debridement and synovectomy
- Ankle ligament reconstruction
- Peroneal tendon tenolysis
- Gastrocnemius recession
- Endoscopic plantar fasciotomy
Following surgery, this worker commenced another course of conservative rehabilitation and physical therapy in an effort to recover and return to function.
The Workers’ Comp Litigation: Insurance Company Surveillance and Benefit Termination Attempt
Although the workers’ compensation insurance company initially accepted the claim and voluntarily paid weekly disability benefits, their position changed after they hired a private investigator to conduct surveillance.
The insurer filmed the injured worker walking in his backyard and briefly picking up items. The insurance company and its attorneys then took this video completely out of context and argued – despite ongoing medical restrictions and post-surgical recovery – that the employee was capable of full-time work. Based on their interpretation, the insurer filed a Complaint to Terminate Workers’ Compensation Benefits.
Attorney Chuck Pappas aggressively litigated the claim, exposing the flaws in the insurer’s argument and demonstrating that short, isolated moments of activity do not equate to an ability to perform sustained, full-time employment – particularly for a delivery driver recovering from major ankle surgery.
The Result: $165,000 Lump Sum Workers’ Compensation Settlement
After thorough preparation, skilled advocacy, and persistent litigation, Attorney Pappas secured a $165,000 lump sum workers’ compensation settlement for his client. This settlement provided the injured worker with meaningful financial security and closure, while protecting him from further attempts by the insurance company to terminate or reduce his benefits.
Why Experienced Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Representation Matters
This case is a clear example of how insurance companies use surveillance, selective video clips, and aggressive legal tactics to reduce or eliminate benefits – often while an injured worker is still recovering from surgery.
If you are injured on the job in Massachusetts, especially in physically demanding work such as delivery, warehousing, or logistics, you need an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who understands:
- How insurers investigate and challenge claims
- How to counter surveillance evidence taken out of context
- How to prove ongoing disability through medical and vocational evidence
- How to maximize settlements through strategic litigation
Attorney Chuck Pappas has extensive experience representing injured workers throughout Framingham, MetroWest, Boston, and across Massachusetts, and knows how to hold insurance companies accountable.
Get Help Without Financial Risk
Attorney Chuck Pappas accepts workers’ compensation cases on a contingent fee basis. There is no deposit and no retainer required. Attorney Pappas only earns a legal fee if he successfully obtains the workers’ compensation benefits or settlement you deserve.
If you have been injured at work or are facing termination of your benefits, consult with an experienced Massachusetts workers’ compensation attorney who will protect your rights and fight for your future. Contact Attorney Chuck Pappas today online or call him at (508) 879-3500 for a confidential consultation.
A work accident isn't something most think about often until it happens to them. This is why injured workers typically have many questions and concerns after being seriously injured on the job. If you were hurt at work, you should have a good understanding of the workers’ compensation process and benefits available in Massachusetts. Experienced workers’ compensation lawyer, Chuck Pappas is here to help you during this difficult time.