A plaintiff received $1.3 million in a settlement following a fall from a third-floor apartment stairwell that resulted in significant injuries, including damage to her placenta and the need for an emergency C-section. The incident occurred when the wooden stairwell collapsed, causing the plaintiff to fall two and a half stories.
Premises Liability Case Details
The case, categorized as premises liability, involved multiple alleged injuries. These included a fractured jaw, a condylar fracture, a severely lacerated tongue, damage to multiple teeth, injuries to both knees and the right thigh and lower extremity, and a broken right foot, in addition to the damaged placenta.
The plaintiff initially demanded $4 million, but the case was settled for $1.3 million, with $109,578 attributed to special damages. The case was settled without a jury or judge present.
Impact on Newborn
Following the fall and subsequent placental damage, the plaintiff underwent an emergency C-section. The newborn required treatment in a neonatal intensive care unit but was reported to be doing well at the time of the settlement.
Richard Rafferty, Mark W. Murphy, and Travis Rafferty of Eden Rafferty, based in Worcester, represented the plaintiff in this matter. The case was settled on July 25, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of legal action was taken?
This case involved a claim of premises liability.
What injuries did the plaintiff sustain?
The plaintiff suffered a fractured jaw, a condylar fracture, a severely lacerated tongue, damage to multiple teeth, injuries to her right thigh, right knee, and right lower extremity, a broken right foot, and damage to her placenta.
What was the final settlement amount?
The case was settled for $1.3 million.
How might similar incidents be prevented in the future through improved safety measures?
