Hakala v. Burroughs Corp.

This case involves the question whether a worker with a pre-existing vision disability who suffers the specific loss of a hand is entitled to total and permanent disability benefits.

We affirm the decision of the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board that he is not.

On September 7, 1962, Edward Hakala lost his right hand in a press accident while working at Burroughs Corporation. Burroughs voluntarily paid specific loss benefits for the injury.

On June 17, 1968, Mr. Hakala filed a petition claiming that he was totally and permanently disabled and asking for benefits from the Second Injury Fund.…