$750,000 Settlement for Construction Worker Injured in Fall from Makeshift Ramp
Construction sites are inherently dangerous places, and even the most experienced workers can find themselves victims of negligence. At Veridian Legal, we fight tirelessly to protect the rights of injured construction workers and secure the compensation they deserve. Recently, we achieved a $750,000 settlement for our client, P.M., who suffered a devastating knee injury due to unsafe conditions on a Manhattan construction site.
The Incident: A Makeshift Ramp and a Devastating Fall
P.M., a member of the Cement & Concrete Workers Union Local 20, was working on a massive luxury condominium project called Riverside Center. His task that day was simple: transport long pieces of rebar from the column yard to the building. However, the complaint alleged that the path he was instructed to use was anything but safe. A makeshift wooden ramp had been constructed over a dirt incline, creating a precarious route fraught with danger.
As P.M. walked down the ramp carrying heavy rebar, he slipped on loose debris – a treacherous mix of tie wires, dirt, and nails. Losing his footing, he slid down the ramp and landed in a ditch, injuring his right knee. The ramp was wet, likely from rain the previous day, further exacerbating the hazardous conditions.
Labor Law Violations: A Breach of Safety Standards
This incident, as alleged in the complaint, highlights a clear violation of New York Labor Law, specifically:
Scaffold Law (§240): This law protects workers from elevation-related risks. The makeshift ramp, lacking proper safety features, failed to meet the standards required to protect workers like P.M.
Industrial Code Violations (§241(6)): The site also violated several provisions of the Industrial Code, including those related to keeping passageways and work areas free from slippery conditions and debris.
Overcoming Summary Judgment: Fighting for P.M.'s Rights
The defendants attempted to have the case dismissed through a motion for summary judgment. However, Veridian Legal vigorously opposed this motion, and the court ultimately ruled in P.M.'s favor, allowing his case to proceed.
P.M.'s Injuries and Damages: A Life Altered
P.M.'s fall resulted in severe damage to his right knee, requiring ACL reconstruction and meniscal repair. He endured significant pain, underwent surgery, and faced a long and arduous recovery process. The injury left him unable to return to his physically demanding job in construction.
At just 24 years old, P.M.'s life took an unexpected turn. He could no longer enjoy activities he once loved, and his ability to provide for his young child was jeopardized. He experienced ongoing pain, limited mobility, and the emotional distress of an uncertain future.
Rebutting the Defense's Experts: Unmasking Deception
The defense attempted to downplay P.M.'s injuries and his inability to work. They presented expert witnesses who plaintiff claimed offered misleading opinions and speculative theories. However, Veridian Legal's skilled attorneys meticulously dissected their reports, exposing flaws and inconsistencies. We demonstrated the true extent of P.M.'s injuries and the devastating impact they had on his life.
Securing a $750,000 Settlement: Justice for P.M.
Through persistent negotiation and a strong legal strategy, Veridian Legal secured a $750,000 settlement for P.M. This settlement will help him address his medical expenses, lost income, and the ongoing challenges he faces as a result of his injury.
Contact Veridian Legal Today
This case underscores the importance of holding negligent parties accountable for construction site accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured on the job, don't hesitate to contact Veridian Legal. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured workers. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options. You don't have to face this alone – let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
