Deaf Worker With Disabling Knee Injuries Can't Get PTD Benefits From 2nd Injury Fund

The Missouri Supreme Court ruled that the Second Injury Fund was not liable for the payment of permanent total disability benefits to a deaf worker after two knee injuries left him unable to be employed. Robert Schebaum became deaf as a child. He primarily communicates by reading lips and writing. In 2006, Schebaum began working part-time at ABB Holdings Inc. Six months later, he was promoted to a full-time position. On Aug. 2, 2007, Schebaum was working on a freight elevator when the cables on the elevator broke, causing it to fall. Schebaum injured his right knee. Schebaum was laid off ...