July 29, 2019

$3,000,000 – Labor Law – Iron Worker – Ankle Injury and Nerve Pain

Plaintiff, an apprentice Iron Worker, was working on the construction of the Goldman Sachs world headquarters when he was caused to trip and fall on loose construction debris. Plaintiff commenced an action against Goldman Sachs and the general contractor, Tishman Construction Corp., alleging violations of the Labor Law and negligence. Defendants argued plaintiff tripped because he was not paying attention and gave a different version of what happened immediately after the accident. Plaintiff suffered a fractured ankle that was casted in the emergency room. Plaintiff underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left ankle and a course of physical therapy both of which failed to relieve his pain. Plaintiff was subsequently diagnosed a rare nerve disorder called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD). Plaintiff underwent, nerve blocks and steroid injections. He ultimately, had a spinal cord stimulator implanted into his back. Defendants argued, plaintiff was a malinger and had video-surveillance showing plaintiff performing various activities seemingly without pain. Defendants also argued plaintiff had a previous motor vehicle accident that contributed to his current problem. The case proceeded to trial and was settled for $3,000,000.00, by Hecht Kleeger & Damashek, P.C., partner Jordan Hecht.

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