$7 Million* Settlement for a Queens Catastrophic Demolition Accident

A hardworking laborer's life was irrevocably altered when a demolition site became a scene of preventable disaster. Buried under thousands of pounds of concrete and steel, he sustained devastating injuries that required years of intense medical care. His ordeal underscores a stark reality: when safety is disregarded, lives are shattered. Oresky & Associates, PLLC's dedicated construction accident lawyers championed his fight for justice, ultimately securing a substantial $7 million settlement that will provide for his long-term needs.

A Predictable Collapse: When Safety Measures Are Ignored

The incident occurred on what began as a routine workday. Our client was working on the second floor of a building undergoing demolition in Queens. Above him, coworkers were attempting to remove a 7,000-pound concrete beam, part of the building's slab. Instead of using proper equipment and procedures, they relied on a makeshift device to precariously hold the beam in place — a decision with dire consequences.

As a worker began cutting the rebar supporting the beam, the inadequate support failed. The beam slipped, and the attached wall crashed down directly onto our client. He was instantly entombed under the immense weight of concrete and steel debris. This was not an unforeseeable accident but a direct result of flagrant disregard for established demolition safety protocols.

The Long Road to Recovery: Extensive Injuries and Lasting Impact

Emergency responders rushed our client to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. His injuries were extensive and severe, including multiple fractures to his pelvis, leg, ribs, and spine. His journey to recovery spanned three years and involved a series of arduous medical interventions:

• Multiple invasive surgeries, including open reductions and internal fixations of his hips and knee
• Intense physical and occupational therapy to regain mobility and function
• Ongoing pain management through spinal injections, nerve blocks, and radiofrequency lesioning
• Psychological counseling to address the profound impact of PTSD, depression, and anxiety
• Additional surgeries for his wrist and knee
• A spinal fusion surgery

The physical and emotional toll on our client and his family was immense, leaving a lasting mark on every aspect of his life.

Establishing Responsibility

Our client's injuries were not a matter of misfortune; they were the direct consequence of negligent decisions by those responsible for site safety. Construction site owners and contractors bear a legal and moral obligation to adhere to industry safety standards and provide workers with appropriate protection. In this case, the failures were clear, making the defendants unequivocally responsible for compensating the injured laborer.

Our Firm's Advocacy

From the moment Oresky & Associates, PLLC, was retained, our Queens construction accident team initiated a thorough investigation. Our investigators, paralegals, and attorneys immediately sprang into action, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and meticulously documenting the accident's causes. We maintained continuous communication with our client throughout the litigation, ensuring he was informed and supported.

Our firm meticulously built our client's case, collaborating with medical practitioners, a life care planner, and an economist to fully quantify the long-term impact of his injuries. With a trial-ready presentation, we were prepared to argue our client's case in court.

Securing a Life-Changing Settlement

After extensive discovery and the case's placement on the court's trial calendar, the insurance companies for the defendants sought to discuss a settlement. Our managing attorney, Jacob Oresky, Esq., led a lengthy, high-level mediation. While the mediation itself did not result in an immediate resolution, negotiations continued. Through persistent advocacy and a clear demonstration of the strength of our case, our client ultimately received a fair settlement for his injuries.

This outcome represents more than just financial compensation; it provides a foundation for our client's future well-being and acknowledges the profound impact of the negligence he endured. Our client and his family expressed deep gratitude for the strong relationship we forged and the results that will positively influence their lives for years to come.

Justice for Injured Workers

If you or a loved one has been harmed in a construction accident in Queens, grasping your rights and options is vital. Contact Oresky & Associates, PLLC, for a complimentary consultation. We'll stand with you.

*Prior results do not guarantee a future similar outcome.