Key Facts:
- Roberto Soave was employed as a construction site supervisor by Stahle from October 2013.
- In January 2014, Soave went on medical leave for a hernia surgery.
- In March 2014, while awaiting surgery, Soave was involved in a car accident, resulting in total disability.
- Soave's benefits under Stahle’s group health plan were terminated in January 2014, when the company claimed he had resigned.
- Soave sued for breach of contract, seeking long-term disability (LTD) benefits.
Lower Court Decision:
- The trial court found that Stahle wrongfully terminated Soave’s LTD coverage and awarded him damages and costs.
Appeal Issues:
- Whether Soave was eligible for LTD benefits under the group plan.
- Whether Soave was disabled as of January 27, 2014 (before the accident).
Appellate Court Findings:
- The court upheld the trial judge’s decision that Soave was already disabled when he went on leave.
- The trial judge was entitled to conclude Soave’s hernia prevented him from performing his job duties.
- Stahle’s arguments that Soave had resigned or was not disabled were dismissed.
Conclusion:
The appeal was dismissed, and Stahle was ordered to pay costs of $17,500.
