New York Personal Injury Lawyers

Construction & Work Accidents

$4.2 Million - John S

Dansker & Aspromonte Associates LLP Are Experienced & Successful New York Serious Injury Lawyers with Results Exceeding $500 Million

Construction Injury Lawyers Serving New York City

Put 100+ Years of Combined Legal Experience On Your Side

Construction sites are among the most dangerous of all environments in which to work. Heavy equipment, scaffolding, power tools and machinery, and a constantly changing environment can all be involved in the causes of construction site accidents. 

These accidents can result in serious injuries, including:

  • Electrocutions
  • Internal injuries

These injuries can put workers in emergency rooms, hospitals, doctor offices and out of work for weeks, months, or more. In the worst cases, individuals die from these accidents, leaving behind grieving families who must face the future without the affection and companionship as well as the earnings of their loved ones. 

Arrange for a free consultation directly with a New York construction accident attorney at Dansker & Aspromonte Associates LLP by contacting us online or at (212) 732-2929

Construction Accident Statistics

Due to the dangers of construction sites, many different types of accidents and injuries or fatalities can occur. According to a news release by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 5,190 individuals were killed while on the job in 2021. Construction jobs made up the second highest category of occupational deaths, totaling 951 on-the-job deaths in 2021. 

Construction Accident Cases We Handle

OSHA’s job is to reduce injuries and death through its safety standards. It reports the 10 most frequently violated safety areas leading to workplace accidents. 

Among these are included: 

  • Fall protection
  • Scaffolding
  • Powered industrial trucks
  • Ladders
  • Fall protection training
  • Machinery and machine guarding

At Dansker & Aspromonte Associates LLP, we handle construction accident injury cases related to the above as well as the following:

  • Explosions
  • Falling objects
  • Crushing accidents
  • Truck and vehicle car accidents
  • Trench accidents
  • Unsafe and heavy equipment
  • Accidents related to inadequate safety equipment, such as respiratory, face, head, and eye protection
  • Crane accidents
  • Forklift accidents
  • Electrocutions
  • Welding accidents
  • Building collapse
  • Building collapse

Even if you’re not sure if your case merits legal action, you can share your situation with an attorney from our office who can provide advice and guidance based on your specifics.

Handle Your Case with Confidence

Over $500 Million Recovered
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  • Common Causes of Construction Accidents

    Construction accidents can result from a combination of various factors, both human and environmental. Understanding these factors can help in preventing accidents and ensuring safer work environments.

    Some common contributing factors include:

    • Human Error: Mistakes made by workers, supervisors, or managers due to negligence, lack of training, fatigue, or distraction can lead to accidents. Examples include operating machinery improperly, not following safety procedures, or disregarding warning signs.
    • Lack of Training: Inadequate training or improper training can leave workers unaware of safety protocols, correct equipment usage, or hazard recognition, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
    • Poor Communication: Miscommunication or lack of effective communication among workers, between workers and supervisors, or between different contractors on a site can lead to confusion about tasks, responsibilities, or safety precautions.
    • Unsafe Work Practices: Cutting corners to save time or effort, bypassing safety protocols, or not using personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly can significantly increase the risk of accidents.
    • Fatigue: Long hours, overtime, or consecutive shifts without sufficient rest can impair judgment, slow reaction times, and increase the likelihood of errors, leading to accidents.
    • Equipment Malfunction or Failure: Mechanical failure or malfunction of construction equipment, tools, or machinery can result from poor maintenance, faulty parts, or improper usage, leading to accidents and injuries.
    • Hazardous Working Conditions: Working in extreme weather conditions, working at heights, exposure to hazardous materials, or inadequate lighting can increase the risk of accidents if appropriate safety measures are not implemented.
    • Lack of Supervision: Inadequate supervision or failure to monitor work activities can result in workers taking unsafe shortcuts or engaging in risky behaviors without oversight.
    • Inadequate Planning and Risk Assessment: Failing to identify and mitigate potential hazards before commencing work can increase the likelihood of accidents occurring during construction activities.
    • Subcontractor Coordination Issues: Lack of coordination and communication among subcontractors or between subcontractors and the main contractor can lead to conflicts, delays, and unsafe work practices.
    • Pressure to Meet Deadlines: Tight project schedules or financial constraints can lead to rushing work, cutting corners, or overlooking safety protocols to meet deadlines, increasing the risk of accidents.
    • Inadequate Safety Regulations and Enforcement: Weak or poorly enforced safety regulations, inadequate oversight by regulatory bodies, or insufficient penalties for non-compliance can contribute to a culture where safety is not prioritized, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

    New York Construction Accident Laws

    The law in New York State protects workers on construction sites. In many cases, the Labor Law places strict liability on the general contractor and site owner. That means that construction project owners, landlords, general contractors, and their agents are considered absolutely at fault for construction accidents caused by safety violations.

    New York Labor Law Section 241

    Under New York Labor Law Section 241, these individuals have a duty to all persons working in and upon the building and premises to construct, equip, arrange, operate, and conduct the work in such a manner to provide reasonable and adequate protection to the lives, health, and safety of all persons employed or lawfully frequenting such places.

    Construction Safety Precautions 

    They must also place, operate, guard, and light all machinery, equipment, and devices to provide reasonable and adequate safety protections. Such protections must be in place during all phases of construction jobs, including demolition, erection, repair, painting, cleaning, and any other operations. 

    Reasonable protections are expected to be provided for workers using equipment such as:

  • Ladders
  • Stays
  • Hangers
  • Pulleys
  • Ropes
  • Hoists
  • Slings
  • Blocks
  • Braces

Contractors and owners must also comply with all the rules contained in the New York State Industrial Code, such as keeping the workplace clean and free of debris and keeping all safety devices in sound operating condition.

Liability in Construction Site Accidents

Construction sites have many moving parts and individuals who are involved with the job. Here are some parties that might be held liable for a construction site accident:

  • Employers/Contractors: The primary responsibility for ensuring a safe work environment typically lies with the employer or contractor overseeing the construction project. They are obligated to provide a safe workplace, proper training, adequate supervision, and necessary safety equipment. Failure to fulfill these obligations can result in liability for accidents that occur on the site.
  • Subcontractors: Subcontractors hired to perform specific tasks on a construction site may also be held liable for accidents resulting from their negligence or failure to adhere to safety regulations. However, the extent of their liability may depend on the terms of their contract and the degree of control they have over the work environment.
  • Property Owners: In cases where the property owner is directly involved in the construction project or retains control over certain aspects of the site, they may share liability for accidents that occur due to hazards or unsafe conditions on the property.
  • Design Professionals: Architects, engineers, or other design professionals involved in the planning and design of the construction project may be held liable if design defects or errors contribute to an accident or injury on the site.
  • Manufacturers and Suppliers: Manufacturers or suppliers of construction equipment, machinery, or materials may be held liable for accidents resulting from defects in their products, inadequate warnings, or failure to provide proper instructions for safe use.
  • Government Entities: In some cases, government agencies responsible for regulating workplace safety or overseeing construction projects may be held liable if they fail to enforce applicable safety regulations or provide adequate oversight, leading to accidents.
  • Third Parties: Parties not directly involved in the construction project, such as pedestrians, neighboring property owners, or utility companies, may also be held liable if their actions or negligence contribute to an accident on the construction site.

How Dansker & Aspromonte Associates LLP Can Help

At Dansker & Aspromonte Associates LLP, we are deeply familiar with the consequences that a construction site accident can have on workers and their families. That is why we work tirelessly to fight for the compensation you need from all available sources that contributed to or caused your injuries. 

When you come to our firm, you can rely on our proven experience, negotiation and trial skills, and the genuine care and support we provide. Our firm has been serving the needs of New Yorkers since 1986 leading to millions of dollars recovered on behalf of our injury clients. 

Call Dansker & Aspromonte Associates LLP at (212) 732-2929 today or contact us online to book your free consultation with a New York construction accident attorney today. 

Why Hire a New York Construction Accident Lawyer?

Working with an attorney from our firm can benefit anyone who has been injured in a construction accident. This is especially true if you are unsure about who is liable for your injuries, you have a particularly complicated case, and when you do not want to deal with unfair insurance tactics on your own. Regarding the latter, bear in mind that insurance company representatives do not work for you but for their employers and will commonly offer you quick settlements at far less than your case is worth to close their files and ensure the continued profitability of the company. 

At Dansker & Aspromonte Associates LLP, we work exclusively for you and your best interests. We do that by:

  • Gathering compelling evidence to prove liability and your losses. This can include witness testimony, medical records, statements from doctors and other experts, and more, all to prove the value of your case.
  • Negotiating with insurance companies. We prepare all cases for trial, putting you in the strongest legal position for an optimum outcome. Our team is composed of skilled negotiators who won’t back down from insurance company efforts to reduce your claim.
  • Litigating on your behalf in court. It can be tricky to know when it’s time to go to court or when you are eligible to do so. However, we can advise you and handle the proceedings when negotiations fail to yield a fair settlement, filing a civil lawsuit backed up by our extensive case preparation and proven trial skills. 

Only you can determine if seeking representation is right for your case. When doing so, know that we bring decades of experience in civil court to seek the best possible results for you.

Recoverable Damages in a Third-Party Claims

Every personal injury case is different, based on the type of accident, the extent of your injuries, and other relevant facts. However, available damages in a third-party injury claim may include: 

  • Pain and suffering: If your injuries substantially affected your life, both physically and emotionally
  • Medical bills: If you had to receive testing and treatments to heal from your injuries, including emergency care, surgery, physical therapy, hospitalizations, and more
  • Lost wages: If your injuries affected your ability to go back to work after the accident
  • Future lost income: If your injuries will go on to reduce your earnings in the future
  • Wrongful death damages: If you are seeking compensation after a loved one’s passing

In general, the more severe your injuries were and the higher the cost of your medical care, the more we can seek through a third-party claim or lawsuit. However, your injuries do not have to be catastrophic to seek compensation. 

We can determine the merits of your case after discussing the details with you in a free consultation.

Focused on Your Recovery

Brain Damaged Child

$50 Million

A four-year-old boy was brought to the hospital for a routine eyelid repair. To cut costs, the hospital contracted out its anesthesia services to a third-party corporation.

Wrongful Death

$21.5 Million

This accident occurred in the Bronx when our client was working on a sanitation truck. The driver lost control while making a turn. Our client was ejected and the truck ran over his leg.

Pedestrian Injury

$10.3 Million

A 22-year-old theater intern was walking across the intersection of 42nd Street and Ninth Avenue in Manhattan when she was struck by the rear door of a passing truck which had flown open because it had been improperly secured by the driver.

MVA - Police Officer

$31 Million

A 35-year-old New York City Police officer was admitted to Jacobi Hospital with head and limb injuries after a collision.

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We serve clients throughout the New York City Metropolitan area, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, Staten Island,

and Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Contact us for help today.

This tragic accident occurred when our client, a sanitation worker, was ejected from his truck in the Bronx after the driver lost control. He was fatally injured when the truck ran over his leg. This case demonstrates the firm's experience with wrongful death claims involving vehicles.
A construction worker suffered fractures of the shoulder, clavicle, ribs, and hip, as well as internal injuries that required multiple surgeries. This case underscores the severity of construction injuries and the firm's ability to secure significant settlements.
An undocumented immigrant working on scaffolding at a construction site fell 30 feet onto the cement, resulting in extensive injuries. This case highlights the firm's expertise in handling severe fall injuries common on construction sites.
A 30-year-old carpenter fell from a ladder while working on a job site in a retail store, resulting in serious injuries. This case emphasizes the firm's experience with ladder- related accidents, which are frequent in construction settings.
Un joven con discapacidad de desarrollo fue golpeado por un autobús de la ciudad mientras cruzaba una intersección, resultando en su trágica muerte. Este caso refleja la experiencia de la firma en casos de accidentes fatales de peatones.
Un ayudante de camarero de 20 años fue atropellado por un automóvil en Ocean Parkway en Brooklyn, lo que lo dejó en coma y con graves lesiones cerebrales.
Una contadora que caminaba después del trabajo en Battery Park fue atropellada por una motoneta de la policía que iba a gran velocidad, resultando en lesiones significativas.
Una pasante de teatro de 22 años caminaba por la intersección de la calle 42 y la Novena Avenida en Manhattan cuando fue golpeada por la puerta trasera de un camión que no estaba asegurada correctamente. Sufrió lesiones graves como resultado.
La Sra. Y-H, pasajera en un tren del metro que descarriló, fue lanzada dentro del vagón y sufrió múltiples fracturas y una lesión cerebral traumática.
Un ayudante de camarero de 20 años fue atropellado por un automóvil en Ocean Parkway en Brooklyn, lo que lo dejó en estado de coma y con lesiones cerebrales graves.
Un repartidor en bicicleta de 26 años fue golpeado por una camioneta Dollar Rent-A- Car que iba a gran velocidad en una intersección concurrida, lo que resultó en múltiples fracturas y daño cerebral leve.
Christian, un niño de 4 años, sufrió daño cerebral severo después de una cirugía rutinaria de párpados caídos en el hospital. Para reducir costos, el hospital subcontrató los servicios de anestesia a una corporación que empleaba principalmente enfermeras anestesistas en lugar de médicos capacitados.
Un niño sufrió lesiones graves después de caerse mientras corría detrás de su autobús escolar y ser atropellado por las ruedas traseras. Este caso demuestra la habilidad de la firma para obtener compensación en accidentes que involucran autobuses escolares y menores.
Un joven chino con discapacidad de desarrollo fue golpeado por un autobús de la ciudad mientras cruzaba una intersección. Este trágico caso de accidente de autobús demuestra la experiencia de la firma en casos de accidentes con transporte público.
La Sra. Y-H era una pasajera en un tren del metro que descarriló. Fue lanzada dentro del vagón y sufrió múltiples fracturas y una lesión cerebral traumática, lo cual destaca la habilidad de la firma para manejar casos complejos de transporte público.
Un ayudante de camarero de 20 años fue atropellado por un automóvil en Ocean Parkway en Brooklyn, sufriendo lesiones graves, incluyendo un coma. Aunque es un caso de peatón, el incidente involucra un vehículo y demuestra la experiencia de la firma en manejar accidentes graves de tránsito.
A pesar de que este caso fue referido a Dansker & Aspromonte 17 años después del accidente, el equipo obtuvo un veredicto impresionante al demostrar que las condiciones de la carretera mojada contribuyeron al accidente grave.
En uno de los casos más trágicos, dos madres y cuatro adolescentes se dirigían a una competencia de natación en la autopista New York State Thruway cuando se sospechó que una llanta estaba desinflada, y la conductora detuvo la camioneta en el carril de circulación, causando un accidente fatal.
Este caso involucró a una niña de 6 años que estaba en una camioneta que fue golpeada por una ambulancia en un choque de múltiples vehículos en Long Island, resultando en fracturas graves que requirieron varias cirugías.
Una oficial de la Policía de la Ciudad de Nueva York de 35 años sufrió lesiones graves mientras era pasajera en un automóvil policial en camino a una llamada de emergencia.
Un carpintero de 46 años cayó de una escalera que resbaló en el sitio de trabajo, lo que le causó lesiones significativas. Este caso ilustra la experiencia de la firma en accidentes de equipo defectuoso en entornos de construcción.
Un carpintero de 30 años cayó de una escalera en un sitio de trabajo en una tienda minorista, resultando en lesiones graves. Este caso subraya la capacidad de la firma para asegurar compensación en accidentes de caídas en proyectos de construcción.
Un inmigrante mexicano sin documentación cayó 30 pies desde un andamio en un sitio de construcción, sufriendo lesiones graves al impactar contra el cemento. Este caso demuestra la experiencia de la firma en caídas en el lugar de trabajo, comunes en la construcción.
Un trabajador de construcción sufrió fracturas en el hombro, clavícula, costillas y cadera, además de lesiones internas que requirieron múltiples cirugías. Este caso destaca la habilidad de la firma para manejar lesiones graves en el lugar de trabajo.
Baby S. was born with a congenital hip dislocation that was not diagnosed or treated properly, leading to a permanent deformity. Although a birth injury, this case emphasizes the firm’s experience with young children suffering from negligence-related injuries.
A young boy sustained severe injuries, including bilateral hip fractures, after he slipped while running after his school bus and was subsequently run over. This case demonstrates the firm’s experience with child injuries involving negligence and transportation safety, relevant to daycare environments.
A baby suffered nerve damage (Erb’s Palsy) due to excessive force during a complicated delivery. This case underscores the firm’s capability in securing justice for young children affected by negligence, a crucial aspect of daycare-related injury cases.
A young girl suffered a severe injury when her ring finger was severed after it became caught in a gap while she slid down a slide at an NYC school playground. This case highlights the firm's experience in handling injuries to children due to unsafe playground equipment.
Maria, a housekeeper, was fatally injured when she was struck by a school bus in Brooklyn. She was thrown over 25 feet, suffering life-ending injuries. This case illustrates the firm's ability to pursue justice in severe pedestrian accident cases resulting in fatalities.
Our client, a NYC Parks Department employee, was preparing his truck to spread salt on Staten Island's roads during a snowy night. Tragically, he was struck and killed, underscoring the firm's experience with fatal vehicle accidents involving workplace and road safety.
A 21-year-old developmentally disabled young man was fatally struck by a City bus while walking with friends after school. This wrongful death case demonstrates the firm’s commitment to securing justice in fatal pedestrian and vehicle collision cases.
In one of the most tragic cases handled by the firm, two mothers and their four teenagers were driving to a high school swimming meet when the vehicle had a suspected flat tire. The mother stopped the van in the moving lane, resulting in a fatal accident. This high-profile case highlights the firm's ability to handle complex, fatal freeway accidents.
This tragic accident occurred when our client, a sanitation worker, was ejected from his truck in the Bronx after the driver lost control. He was fatally injured when the truck ran over his leg. This case demonstrates the firm's experience with wrongful death claims involving vehicles.
Un trabajador de construcción de 50 años estaba montando su bicicleta cuando cayó debido a un defecto en la carretera y sufrió pequeñas fracturas y daños cognitivos leves.
Un trabajador de mantenimiento de 31 años golpeó un sensor de presión de control de tráfico de la ciudad de Nueva York mientras montaba su bicicleta. Debido a un mal mantenimiento del sensor, el trabajador sufrió lesiones graves.
Una mujer y su novio estaban andando en bicicleta cuando entraron en un sitio de excavación sin protección en una zona completamente oscura bajo un paso elevado. La bicicleta de Rhonda cayó en un pozo y su cara se estrelló contra la carretera.
Un repartidor en bicicleta de 26 años fue golpeado por una camioneta Dollar Rent-A- Car que iba a gran velocidad en una intersección concurrida, causando múltiples fracturas en el cuello, espalda, brazo y pierna, así como daños cerebrales leves.
Un recién nacido sufrió daño en los nervios y parálisis parcial del brazo izquierdo debido al uso de fuerza excesiva durante un parto complicado en el que debería haberse realizado una cesárea.
Una joven madre primeriza sufrió lesiones graves debido a la negligencia médica del personal en el Hospital Beekman Downtown, causando complicaciones durante el parto.
Un bombero de 42 años se cortó la pierna mientras luchaba contra un incendio. Aunque recibió tratamiento en la clínica, la falta de atención adecuada resultó en lesiones graves que afectaron su vida.
Un niño de 4 años sufrió daño cerebral severo después de una cirugía de párpados caídos. El hospital había contratado servicios de anestesia a una corporación que empleaba principalmente enfermeras anestesistas en lugar de médicos capacitados.
Un guardia de seguridad resbaló en una superficie helada frente a un edificio propiedad de Metropolitan Life, lo que le causó una fractura de rodilla.
Una asistente de salud en el hogar de 56 años tropezó con un cable expuesto que se extendía desde una cabina telefónica en la plataforma del metro, resultando en una lesión que requirió un reemplazo de rodilla.
Un conductor de servicio se bajó de su vehículo para recoger dinero en el carril de un Burger King cuando cayó a través de una rejilla de alcantarillado rota, resultando en una caída de 4 pies y lesiones significativas.
Un trabajador de construcción indocumentado cayó desde un andamio a 30 pies de altura, impactando contra el cemento y sufriendo lesiones graves. Este caso muestra la experiencia de la firma en caídas graves en el trabajo, que se relacionan con incidentes de resbalones y caídas en entornos peligrosos.
Un niño de 16 años fue atropellado por un camión que estaba retrocediendo lentamente y quedó atrapado contra una pared, sufriendo una grave laceración en el bazo, que tuvo que ser removido.
Un empleado del Departamento de Parques de Nueva York fue golpeado por un camión mientras preparaba su vehículo para esparcir sal en una carretera nevada en Staten Island, lo que resultó en su fallecimiento.
Dos madres y sus cuatro adolescentes estaban en camino a una competencia de natación cuando el vehículo en el que viajaban tuvo una falla en la llanta y fue detenido en un carril de tráfico, resultando en un trágico accidente en la autopista con un camión.
Una pasante de teatro de 22 años fue golpeada por la puerta trasera de un camión que se abrió repentinamente debido a una falla de seguridad del conductor mientras caminaba en la calle 42 y Novena Avenida en Manhattan, resultando en lesiones graves.
Un empleado del Departamento de Parques de Nueva York fue atropellado fatalmente por un camión mientras preparaba su vehículo para esparcir sal en una carretera nevada en Staten Island.
Un hombre de 49 años falleció al caer por el hueco de un ascensor cuando las puertas se abrieron sin que la cabina estuviera en el piso correcto. La familia recibió una compensación significativa por esta trágica pérdida.
En un caso trágico, dos madres y sus cuatro adolescentes se dirigían a una competencia de natación en la autopista New York State Thruway cuando su vehículo tuvo un fallo en la llanta. La conductora detuvo la camioneta en el carril de circulación, lo que resultó en un accidente fatal.
Este accidente ocurrió en el Bronx cuando Rafael C. estaba trabajando en un camión de saneamiento. El conductor perdió el control al girar el vehículo.
Una pasante de teatro de 22 años caminaba por la intersección de la calle 42 y la Novena Avenida en Manhattan cuando fue golpeada por la puerta trasera de un camión que pasaba cuando la puerta abrio volando porque no había sido asegurado correctamente por el conductor.Una pasante de teatro de 22 años caminaba por la intersección de la calle 42 y la Novena Avenida en Manhattan cuando fue golpeada por la puerta trasera de un camión que pasaba cuando la puerta abrio volando porque no había sido asegurado correctamente por el conductor.
En uno de los casos más trágicos que ha visto esta oficina, dos madres y sus cuatro adolescentes conducían a una reunión de natación de la escuela secundaria en el New York State Thruway en una camioneta.
Un bombero de 42 años, que antes había corrido más de 30 maratones, se cortó la pierna mientras luchaba contra un incendio.
Un Oficial de la Policía de la Ciudad de Nueva York de 35 años era una pasajera en un automóvil de la policía que iba a una llamada de emergencia.
An undocumented Mexican immigrant working on scaffolding at a construction site fell 30 feet onto the cement. He fractured his skull and vertebrae in his neck and back. It was shown at trial that the company he worked for failed to provide him with a safety line, which would have prevented his fall.
Julio, 16, was an outpatient at the Manhattan Children’s Psychiatric Hospital where he attended school and got psychiatric counseling and supportive therapy every day. The NYC Board of Ed operated the school. One day after school, Julio ran after his bus, which was leaving without him. He slipped and was run over by the back wheels, sustaining severe injuries, including bilateral hip fractures and a shearing injury to his buttocks. Board of Ed rules required that Julio was to be escorted to the bus. The NYCTA denied liability, claiming they weren’t negligent because Julio ran after the bus. The City denied liability because they claimed the school day was over. At trial, both the Board of Ed who had knowledge of Julio’s poor impulse control and was required to put him safely on the bus, and the NYCTA whose bus driver saw Julio running and made no effort to slow or stop the bus were found to be responsible.
Baby Taylor C. – Taylor’s mother had gained over 50 pounds during the pregnancy, was past due, and had a prolonged first stage and second stage of delivery. These are warning signs of an overly large baby. Baby Taylor was 9 lbs. 13 oz. Instead of delivery by C-section, which was clearly indicated, the attending physician elected a natural birth. When the baby was stuck in the pelvic area, excessive force was used to pull her out, injuring the nerves in her neck and causing partial paralysis of her left arm. The condition is known as Erbs Palsy. The case was settled during the trial. Fortunately, Baby Taylor’s injury improved over time.
Ayisha W- A young girl slid down a sliding pond in the playground of an NYC school. The slide was not installed properly and there was a gap between the metal on the side of the slide. As Ayisha slid down, her ring finger went into the gap and the top of it was cut off. The City argued that since it was just the tip of her finger it was not worth much money. At trial, it was proved that Ayisha had a devastating emotional reaction that affected every aspect of her life and self-esteem. The jury agreed.