For many immigrant families, construction work represents opportunity, stability, and the chance to build a better life. That was true for this 29-year-old Spanish-speaking construction site finisher, who came to the United States determined to provide for his family through hard, honest work. Each day on the job was a step toward supporting his loved ones and creating a more secure future.
What began as a routine day at a new residential townhome construction site on Johns Island took a catastrophic turn. While performing his job duties, the worker fell two stories through an unmarked hole intended for an elevator. The opening had not been properly covered or protected, and in an instant, a preventable safety failure changed his life irrevocably.
Devastating Injuries from Two-Story Construction Site Fall
The fall led to severe and extensive injuries, including trauma to the brain and skull, deep scarring, and damage to both the olfactory and facial nerves. The impact caused injuries to the vestibular system, head, face, back, and neck, as well as both upper and lower extremities, bilateral lower extremity injuries involving both knees, and both hands. The physical toll was immense, but the psychological trauma was equally devastating.
After the fall, the victim was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery and was placed in a medically induced coma for two weeks. His brain injuries were so severe that he is now unable to live independently, and his career in construction was cut short. Once the family breadwinner, he now relies on his wife to monitor his daily activities and medications and requires constant care and supervision.
Because English is not his first language, navigating the medical system, insurance process, and legal system after such a traumatic event could have been even more overwhelming. Having a legal team that could communicate clearly and ensure his rights were being protected was critical during this difficult time.
Circumstances Require both a Workers’ Comp Claim and a Third-Party Personal Injury Lawsuit
In the aftermath, his family was left searching for answers. They took photos at the scene, but it was difficult to determine which company was officially responsible for employing him. A subcontractor connected to the project reportedly visited the family several times, urging them not to hire an attorney and promising they would “take care of him.” Despite those assurances, no workers’ compensation checks were issued, and his wife had to stop working to care for him full-time.
When Joye Law Firm Injury Lawyers attorneys went to his hospital room to meet with him, the seriousness of his injuries was immediately clear. He had a large surgical scar across his forehead, had lost his sense of smell, and faced additional invasive surgery. He struggled with balance problems, memory loss, and depression, all symptoms consistent with a traumatic brain injury. At times, he was disoriented and unable to fully participate in conversations about his own care, a devastating change for someone who had once been an active, hardworking provider.
Given the severity of his injuries and the negligence involved in the site’s safety protocols, the victim was able to pursue both a workers’ compensation claim and a personal injury case. Thankfully, he turned to Joye Law Firm Injury Lawyers to help with both cases. Our team fought tirelessly to ensure he received the compensation he deserved.
Through careful investigation, both claims were successfully resolved, including a $1.5 million workers’ compensation settlement and an additional $1.5 million third-party personal injury settlement against those responsible for the dangerous conditions that led to his fall.
While no amount of money can undo the harm he suffered, these recoveries provide critical financial support for his ongoing medical treatment, long-term care, and his family’s future.
Importance of Legal Representation in Construction Accidents
This case is a powerful reminder of the unpredictable nature of construction work and the critical importance of legal advocacy. At Joye Law Firm Injury Lawyers, we are committed to standing by our clients, ensuring they receive the full compensation necessary for their recovery and future well-being. While monetary compensation cannot fully ease the physical and emotional toll our client endured, it provided a pathway for him to move forward.
We take our mission of fighting for injured underdogs seriously, especially hardworking immigrants who are too often taken advantage of on job sites. Language barriers, cash pay arrangements, and unclear employment relationships can leave injured workers feeling powerless and unsure of their rights. In America, no one should be discouraged from seeking help or pressured not to speak with an attorney after being seriously hurt. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness under the law, regardless of where they come from or what language they speak.
Our firm has represented injured workers in South Carolina since 1968. We are dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those who entrust us with their cases. If you or a loved one suffered a life-altering injury on the job, seek the justice your case deserves by contacting Joye Law Firm Injury Lawyers. We have team members fluent in English and Spanish standing by to take your call. Our consultations are always free, and with our No Fee Guarantee, you won’t pay us a fee unless you get money for you.
Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes
