A construction worker has been granted a $25 million settlement following a severe head injury sustained during the renovation of a Brooklyn warehouse, now an Amazon shipping facility. The lawsuit alleged that a contractor fabricated safety logs to falsely claim the site was safe prior to the accident. The Brooklyn work injury lawyers at Markhoff & Mittman, P.C. | The Disability Guys offer insights on the importance of accountability and legal recourse for injured workers.
Worker’s Fall and Subsequent Legal Action
In May 2018, Abbos Abbosov fell through a roof opening at the East New York site on Cozine Avenue while removing asbestos. The fall resulted in a serious head injury, leading to multiple hospitalizations and rendering Abbosov unable to work.
Abbosov filed a lawsuit against several parties, including Bordone Construction, the demolition contractor. In response, Bordone submitted safety logs allegedly signed by a licensed construction-site supervisor. However, the supervisor in question denied involvement in the demolition work and claimed the signature was forged.
Settlement Details Revealed
Initially, the settlement amounts were redacted in court documents. Recent unredacted filings have disclosed that Abbosov will receive $22 million, with an additional $3 million awarded to his wife, Albina Abbosova.
The settlement will be paid by multiple parties:
- Bordone Construction
- GSC Services (Abbosov’s employer and asbestos abatement firm)
- An engineering firm
- A limited liability corporation owning the warehouse and developing it for Amazon
Investigation into Forged Safety Logs
Site-safety supervisor Lisa Bagnoli, upon learning that her name was used on the disputed safety logs, filed a complaint with the city Department of Investigation (DOI). After months of silence, she made contact with an investigator in March. However, communication from the DOI has since ceased.
Diane Struzzi, a DOI spokesperson, acknowledged awareness of the allegation made in 2023 but declined further comment. Attempts to reach Joseph Bordone, owner of Bordone Contracting, for comment were unsuccessful.
This case underscores the serious consequences of workplace safety negligence and the potential for legal action in such incidents.
Prioritizing Workplace Safety and Accountability
The incident at the Brooklyn warehouse highlights the urgent need for rigorous safety measures in all workplaces. Accidents like the one suffered by Abbos Abbosov not only devastate workers and their families but also emphasize the severe consequences of neglecting proper safety protocols. Ensuring a safe work environment is essential to protecting the well-being of employees and preventing such tragedies.
In cases of workplace injuries or fatalities, the attorneys at Markhoff & Mittman, P.C. are dedicated to supporting victims and their families. They work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable, seeking fair compensation for those affected. By pursuing legal action, these attorneys not only advocate for justice but also promote a culture of safety that encourages companies to prioritize the well-being of their employees, ultimately contributing to safer work environments for everyone.
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Brian Mittman, the Managing Partner and Owner at Markhoff & Mittman, P.C., embodies the spirit of "An Unexpected Legal Experience" in both his personal and professional life. With unwavering dedication, Brian tirelessly advocates for the rights of injured and disabled individuals in New York.