No Maintenance or Wage-Loss Benefits for Worker Who Left Labor Market

The Illinois Appellate Court this week ruled that an injured worker was not entitled to maintenance benefits during the time he did not participate in a vocational rehabilitation program or self-directed job search. The case was Euclid Beverage v. IWCC (Bohentin). John Bohentin had worked for Euclid Beverage as a sales supervisor. While stocking a cooler at a store in May 2011, Bohentin allegedly experienced a sharp pain in his back that radiated down his right leg. Dr. George Pappas diagnosed Bohentin with a lumbar sprain. He recommended chiropractic treatment and light-duty work rest...