07/07/2025
Hey everyone, Joe and Scott here from California SIBTF Evaluations!
We often hear from attorneys who are managing busy caseloads and might wonder, "When is a SIBTF evaluation truly necessary?" The truth is, identifying potential Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund cases early can be a game-changer for your clients' recoveries.
To help you out, we've put together a quick "Red Flag" checklist – these are common indicators that a SIBTF evaluation could unlock significant additional benefits:
✅ Any mention of a prior injury, no matter how "minor" or old. Did your client sprain an ankle 10 years ago? Have a knee surgery in their 20s? These could be relevant.
✅ Client has a diagnosed chronic medical condition. Think diabetes, heart conditions, arthritis, or degenerative disc disease – anything that might interact with a new work injury.
✅ The current industrial injury seems to have an "outsized" impact. Does your client's current disability seem disproportionately severe given the nature of the new injury alone? A pre-existing condition might be playing a role.
✅ Client has a history of prior medical-legal evaluations (QME/AME for any reason). This indicates documented prior impairment, a key SIBTF component.
✅ Client has previously received SSDI or other disability benefits. This is a strong indicator of a pre-existing labor-disabling condition.
✅ Early medical reports use terms like "aggravation" or "exacerbation" of a pre-existing condition. This is a direct signal that SIBTF needs to be explored.
If you spot any of these red flags in your cases, it's worth a conversation. A comprehensive SIBTF evaluation from our specialists can provide the crucial evidence needed to ensure your clients receive the maximum benefits they deserve, leveraging this vital state fund.
Let's connect if you have a case that raises any of these flags.
📞 (916) 389-1207
📧 Admin@casibtf.com
🖥️ www.casibtf.com
