Posted on Feb 02, 2006 | Globest News
$75M Settlement Is Reached in Hancock Scaffold Lawsuit
ByMark Ruda
CHICAGO-Shorenstein Properties, along with the contractor, consultant, architect and engineer it used on a window sealing project at the John Hancock Center , has settled a Wrongful Death lawsuit for $75 million. Nearly four years ago, three people were killed and four injured when scaffolding fell from the 42nd floor of the John Hancock Center as a result of strong winds.
“Shorenstein knows that the accident of March 9, 2002 has had a terrible effect on the families of those killed and those who were injured,” says Bruce Duffield of Lord, Bissell & Brook LLP, an attorney representing the San Francisco-based company. “We are gratified that they will receive substantial compensation for this tragedy.”
Shorenstein will pay 10% of the settlement, or $7.5 million, according to a spokesperson. Shorenstein Properties LLC owns the 888,458 sf of office space and 144,462 sf of retail space in the 100-story building at 875 N. Michigan Ave. , which also includes residential condominiums on 49 floors. Shorenstein Realty Services manages the 36-year-old building.
Clifford Law Offices and Corboy & Demetrio represented the plaintiffs.
The scaffolding accident led to aproposed ordinance before the city council requiring permits and setting regulations for scaffolding companies, as GlobeSt.com previously reported. The Chicago City Council passed a version of the scaffolding ordinance on July 31, 2002
If you would like to talk with an experienced wrongful death lawyer to understand and protect your legal rights, please tell us about your wrongful death Case. Our Wrongful Death lawyers have an extensive record in wrongful death cases and will help you evaluate your case.
