General Contractor Fails to Keep Retail Worker Safe – $500,000 Settlement

When any business, including a retail store, undergoes construction the General Contractor performing the work is required to ensure the safety of store patrons and store employees. Under New York State labor laws, contractors must provide reasonable protection for persons lawfully frequenting and passing by work areas. Our client, a 47-year-old retail worker was walking with her supervisor in a portion of the store that had been blocked off for patrons but was accessible to employees. She slipped and fell on construction materials. She suffered painful leg and knee injuries that caused her to lose her second job. She ultimately had to undergo surgery. Attorney Edward Steves settled this case for $500,000.