Blankingship& Keith, P.C. Obtains $2.35 Million Settlement for Property Manager Injured by Defective Light Fixture

Blankingship & Keith, P.C. obtained a $2.35 million settlement for a client who was seriously injured when a defective light lens detached from its housing and struck her on the head during a routine meeting in a newly constructed building.

The client suffered a concussion and ongoing post-concussion symptoms. An investigation showed the fixture was defectively manufactured so that its lens cover was not securely attached. As a result, the building owner and manufacturer replaced more than 80 similar fixtures to prevent further injuries.

Represented by Amy L. Bradley, Juli M. Porto, Robert J. Stoney, and Matthew P. Tsun, the client filed suit against multiple parties, including the building owner, general contractor, electrical subcontractor, the fixture manufacturer, and the distributor. The claims alleged that the building owner failed to maintain safe conditions, the contractors failed to correct a known hazard, and that the manufacturer and distributor sold a defective product.

The building owner and contractors settled during mediation. The manufacturer settled about two weeks later, and the distributor resolved its claims just before a scheduled court hearing. The specific settlement contributions of each defendant remain confidential.

“This case highlights the serious risks posed by construction defects and the importance of accountability at every level, from design to installation,” said Amy Bradley. “Our client was injured while attending a routine business meeting. We’re pleased to have secured a resolution that recognizes her harm and holds the responsible parties accountable.”

Learn more: Read our FAQ on faulty construction and dangerous products for additional information.