Case ID: so2d_386/html/0076-01.html
Source: Caselaw Access Project
Author: {"author": "ROBERT P. SMITH, Jr., Judge.", "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://static.case.law/"}
Date Created: 2024-08-24T03:29:51.129683

SONITROL SOUTHEAST, INC. and Sentry Insurance Co., Appellants, v. Dennis M. NORTHCUTT, Appellee.
    No. OO-291.
    District Court of Appeal of Florida, First District.
    Aug. 4, 1980.
    Richard G. Davis, of Fowler, White, Gil-len, Boggs, Villareal & Banker, Tampa, for appellants.
    Clifford R. Opp, Jr., of Peavyhouse, Gig-lio, Grant, Clark & Charlton, Tampa, for appellee.
   ROBERT P. SMITH, Jr., Judge.

Substantial competent evidence supports the deputy commissioner’s finding that Northcutt’s heart attack was compensable by the standard of Victor Wine & Liquor, Inc. v. Beasley, 141 So.2d 581 (Fla.1962). On this record the deputy commissioner could properly have concluded that climbing a 20-foot stack of plywood in lieu of a ladder, while installing wiring, produced an unusual strain or exertion in an identifiable effort not routine to Northcutt’s usual work. On the cross-appeal, it appears that the deputy ¡prematurely ruled on a question of apportioning attorney’s fees, Section 440.34, Florida Statutes (1978 Supp.), which was reserved by stipulation for a further evidentiary hearing. Also undisposed of is claimant’s claim for interest and penalties.

AFFIRMED in part, REVERSED in part.

BOOTH, J., and WOODIE A. LILES (Ret.), Associate Judge, concur.