Arbitrator upholds first responders' Glasgow Coma Scale scores, finding applicant suffered a catastrophic impairment.
The applicant was injured in a motor vehicle accident and applied for enhanced statutory accident benefits, claiming a catastrophic impairment based on Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores of 9 or less.
The insurer disputed the scores, relying on a neurologist's opinion that the first responders erred in their assessments because the applicant was combative.
The arbitrator rejected the neurologist's theoretical opinion, preferring the contemporaneous assessments of the trained paramedics and emergency room staff.
The arbitrator concluded the applicant suffered a catastrophic impairment.
OFSCDRSOntario Financial Services Commission - Dispute Resolution ServicesMay 12, 2006
