Workers' compensation, employer liability, policy and procedure.

Peggy Franklin and her employer, Broyhill Furniture Industries, appeal a state agency's ruling concerning Franklin's application for workers' compensation benefits. Franklin tripped and injured her left knee in a work-related accident. Franklin received extensive medical care and subsequently filed a claim for workers' compensation benefits. Broyhill acknowledges the accident was work-related, but disputes the extent and severity of Franklin's injuries.

The North Carolina Industrial Commission awarded Franklin temporary total disability benefits, partial permanent disability benefits, payment of future medical expenses, attorney's fees and costs. Both sides in the dispute now appeal.

A split decision. The North Carolina Court of Appeals reversed the ruling of the lower jurisdiction. The appeals court ruled that the industrial commission erred in its application of existing statures. The appeals court remanded the case for appropriate action.