Construction Accident Settlement Secures $20 Million for Injured Worker
A construction worker has been awarded a nearly $20 million settlement following a devastating fall at a San Jose, California construction site in 2008. Attorneys John M. Dodig and Jason A. Daria successfully secured an $11.3 million settlement for their client, Jerry Kielty, a 54-year-old shotcrete concrete pump operator, who suffered life-altering injuries after falling approximately 20 feet through an unguarded opening.
The incident occurred at a multi-building condominium construction site,resulting in cervical and thoracic fractures that left Mr.Kielty with paraplegia. A lawsuit was afterward filed against eight defendants, encompassing the general contractor, various subcontractors – including carpentry, masonry, and fire sprinkler companies – and the developers involved in the project.Each party contributed to the global settlement of $11.3 million.
Beyond the initial settlement, plaintiff’s counsel also negotiated a crucial agreement with Mr. Kielty’s worker’s compensation carrier. This agreement ensures all of Mr. Kielty’s future medical expenses will be fully covered for the remainder of his life, conservatively estimated to provide an additional $8 million in compensation. The total recovery for Mr. Kielty now approaches $20 million, dedicated to providing comprehensive, lifelong care.
The case was litigated in the santa Clara County Superior Court in San Jose, California.Attorneys Dodig and Daria handled the case utilizing a pro hac vice admission, allowing them to collaborate with local counsel to represent Mr. Kielty effectively.