Wilson's Case

This appeal concerns dependency benefits under G. L. c. 152, §§ 31 and 38, of the Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Act (Act).

The employee, James Wilson, suffered a work-related injury on October 1, 1985, while working for Western Massachusetts Electric Company (employer), a self-insurer. He received benefits under G. L. c. 152, §§ 34 and 34A, and died as a result of his injuries on May 1, 1997.

Upon his death, his widow, Judith Wilson (claimant), received weekly death benefit payments for 250 weeks until May 1, 2002, the maximum statutory period provided by G. L. c. 152, § 31. Prior to the…