$9 Million Trial Settlement for Carpenter's Helper Who Fell from Formwork at Construction Site

In an industry where safety protocols are supposed to protect workers, one carpenter's helper's life was shattered when a preventable failure at a construction site left him with catastrophic injuries — and no way to return to the career he had built.

At Oresky & Associates, our Bronx construction accident lawyers fought for justice — and during trial, we secured a $9 million settlement* on behalf of our client.

The Incident: A Jobsite Collapse Waiting to Happen

Our client, a 33-year-old carpenter's helper, was working on the sixth floor of a high-rise construction project. His job involved walking across a formwork system designed to support poured concrete floors.

But the system wasn't properly secured.

As he stepped onto one of the forms, it suddenly flipped downward, sending him crashing 15 to 20 feet onto the concrete floor below.

The fall should never have happened. The failure was a direct result of inadequate safety measures and poor site supervision.

The Injuries: A Career Ended in Seconds

Our client was rushed to Jacobi Medical Center with a crushed femur, fractured wrists, spinal injuries, and head trauma. Over the next three years, he would endure:

• Multiple surgeries, including open reduction and internal fixation of the femur
• Decompressive spine surgery for severe lumbar herniations and nerve damage
• Chronic pain treatment, shockwave therapy, and epidural injections
• Neuropsychological care for a traumatic brain injury and cognitive impairment
• Prolonged home health care, physical therapy, and the use of assistive devices

He was diagnosed with traumatic brain injury, post-concussion syndrome, and permanent neurological deficits.

Prepared Relentlessly. Positioned to Win.

At Oresky & Associates, we launched a full-scale legal and investigatory effort the moment we took on the case. We treated this as the serious, life-altering injury it was — and built the case accordingly:

• We immediately filed a lawsuit and, after aggressive motion practice, secured summary judgment, holding the defendants 100% responsible under New York Labor Law.
• We assembled a team of leading authorities, including a life care planner, economist, orthopedic and neurological doctors.
• We fully documented the extent of our client's injuries, future care needs, and lost earning capacity.
• We prepared relentlessly — with one goal in mind: to be trial-ready and unshakable in court.
• We maintained close communication with our client and his family throughout the litigation, ensuring they felt informed, supported, and empowered at every stage.

Steven Labell, Esq., the handling attorney, oversaw all phases of litigation — managing investigation, discovery, coordination, motion practice, and trial preparation — ensuring the client was fully supported and the case was ready for trial.

Despite our early demands, the defendants lowballed their offers — starting at just $200,000. But as trial began and the strength of our case became clear, the tide turned.

Our attorneys brought the case into the courtroom with meticulous preparation and unwavering focus. Through strategic advocacy and skillful negotiation during trial, we secured a $9 million settlement — delivering an outstanding result that will provide our client with long-term financial security and access to the care he will need for the rest of his life.

More Than a Case — A Commitment to Our Client's Future

This case was about more than legal strategy — it was about standing beside a hardworking man whose life was turned upside down in a matter of seconds. From the first meeting to the final day of trial, we were there: listening, advising, and fighting for what he deserved. His trust in us was never taken for granted — and when the case resolved, his gratitude and that of his family reminded us why we do this work.

At Oresky & Associates, we don't just represent clients — we build lasting relationships and fight for real outcomes. If you've been injured on the job, let us help you reclaim your future. Contact us today or call (718) 993-9999 for a free consultation!

We're available 24/7 — because justice never sleeps.

*Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique and must be evaluated on its own merits.