On December 8, 2008, the firm’s client, a 32 year old demolition laborer, suffered severe injuries to his neck and shoulder when an overhead pipe fell on his head during a demolition project at a Chicago area hospital. The firm filed suit against the General Contractor and the subcontractor in charge of the demolition project because these companies failed to make sure a site specific safety plan and demolition plan were in effect at the project. The defendants claimed the Plaintiff’s employer caused the accident because the plaintiff’s foreman told the plaintiff to cut a small pipe that was supporting the overhead pipes that fell on him.
Attorney Craig Brown took over 20 depositions and hired 4 expert witnesses. The case was set for trial in Chicago on October 21, 2013. The parties participated in a mediation with retired Judge James O’Connell on September 4, 2013. The defendants agreed to pay the plaintiff $1,060,000 and the workers compensation carrier who settled the workers compensation case agreed to waive $521,000 off its workers compensation lien of $578,000.
“We are very pleased to report our client is extremely happy with his settlement” said attorney Brown. “Although he will never be able to work as a demolition laborer again, his settlement will allow him to take care of his young family while he transitions into a new career. We have also helped him set up investment plans that will provide a steady stream of income for his family for the rest of his life.”