Confidential
Settlement – $610,000Court
L.A. Superior Santa Monica
Attorneys
Plaintiff
Peter M. Williamson
(Williamson Law Firm)
Defendant
Facts
On April 21, 1997, the 46-year-old plaintiff was employed as a carpenter by Matt Construction at the Stephen Wise High School construction site in Bel-Aire. The plaintiff was installing metal support braces against a block wall when he was struck in the head by a piece of cement block which fell from the top of 40 foot scaffolding where an employee of defendant was working. An electric diamond blade saw was being used to cut a cement block 8 inches long by 8 inches wide by 16 inches high weighing 35 pounds. A broken piece of the block shot out of the saw and fell 40 feet striking plaintiff on his hard hat.
Settlement Discussions
The plaintiff demanded $1 million (policy limit), reduced to $700,000 two weeks before trial. The defendant offered $125,000, increased to $400,000 three weeks before trial.
Specials in Evidence
$22,605 $140,315 $26,800
Injuries
The plaintiff sustained closed head injury with resulting minor traumatic brain injury, exacerbation of pre-existing disc disease at multiple levels of cervical and lumbar spine.
Other Information
Intervenor sought recovery of a workers' compensation lien in the sum of $107,366. The defendant agreed to exclude the lien from the plaintiff's settlement and negotiate separately with the intervenor.
For reprint rights or to order a copy of your photo:
Email
jeremy@reprintpros.com
for prices.
Direct dial: 949-702-5390