Panel Upholds Denial of Claim by Worker Who Took 'Boatload' of Prescription Medications

The Tennessee Supreme Court Special Workers' Compensation Appeals Panel upheld the denial of benefits to a sawmill worker who produced a urine sample indicating he had taken a "boatload" of prescription medications prior to his on-the-job accident. Case: Austin v. Roach Sawmill & Lumber Co., No. W2015-02225-SC-WCM-WC, 10/26/2016, published. Facts: James Austin worked for the Roach Sawmill & Lumber Co. for 19 years before injuring his hand while operating a hydraulic log turner. Doctors wound up having to amputate his right ring finger as a result of this accident. Aft...