Improperly Modified and Installed Loading Dock Plate Results in One-Million Dollar Settlement for our Client
Case Summary:
Our client sustained nerve injury to his arm due to the improper installation and modification of a hydraulic dock lift .The dock lift, intended to assist with loading and unloading, had been altered according to the manufacturer of the equipment, rendering it unsafe for regular use. While operating the equipment in the normal course of his job duties, the steel hinged plate unexpectedly fell while our client was holding it up with the attached safety chain resulting in it yanking his arm as the hinged plate moved forward
As a result, our client suffered injuries to his neck, arm, and shoulder. These injuries required medical treatment and impacted his ability to fully use his left arm. He has been unable to return to work since the incident and continues to experience chronic pain .
Outcome:
Senior Partner, Rick Jurewicz, brought claims against the parties responsible for the defective design of the dock lift. Through investigation, Rick demonstrated that the manufacturer of the lift could have prevented our client’s accident and injuries had the hinged plate been designed to operate hydraulically rather than manually raising and lowering it. He resolved this matter for $1,000,000.00 in a case pending in central Pa.