Facts

The Burberry project, which spanned from Dec. 2003 to Oct. 2004, was a multi-million dollar, interior remodel and seismic and structural upgrade of an existing retail store and building in San Francisco. The defendant, Richter & Ratner Contracting Corporation of New York, was the general contractor and hired several subcontractors, including the plaintiff's employer, Cannon Constructors, and Paramount, an elevator subcontractor.

At the time of the accident, subcontractors were replacing the existing elevator, and to accommodate other ongoing work, Richter & Ratner was required to maintain barricades in front of each opening to the elevator shaft. On Aug. 30, 2004, Scott was working when he slipped into the unguarded elevator pit, falling backwards and landing on his back on the concrete floor.

Injuries

Scott sustained permanently disabling back, neck and knee injuries that prevent him from ever returning to his prior work as a construction supervisor and general contractor or to the physical activities he loved.

Result

Verdict, $10,563,862.

Other Information

The verdict was 25 times the amount of defendants' final, pre-trial settlement offer.

Poll

unanimous verdict.