Swanson Gardner Meyers Cohon PLLC has represented clients in a number of construction injury and death cases. For decades, we’ve been there to help injured accident victims pick up the pieces of their lives after a construction site accident.
Here is just one of our most notable cases:
On March 14, 2022, a King County Superior Court jury awarded those seriously injured and family members of those who died in the 2019 Seattle crane disaster a combined $150 Million dollars. Swanson Gardner Meyers Cohon PLLC represented the family of Sarah Wong, who was riding in an Uber with a college friend on their way to a shopping mall when the crane tumbled off a roof onto the Uber, killing her. Attorneys Todd Gardner and Peter Meyers represented Sarah’s family during the multi-week trial.
According to the Swanson Gardner Meyer Cohon attorneys, Todd Gardner and Peter Meyers, who represented the Wong family, shortcuts were made to save a little time. Winds above strict protocols were not monitored. The disregard for public safety was blatant. While Northwest Tower acknowledged responsibility and promised adherence to safety procedures in the future, Omega Morgan refused to accept responsibility during the trial.
Below is a compilation of news articles about the verdict – and the deliberate safety rules that were violated – causing injury and deaths to innocent victims as well as the two crane operators, killed when the crane tower they were in buckled and fell off the roof of the building under construction.
Swanson Gardner Meyers Cohon PLLC fought and won more than $72 Million on behalf of the family of Sarah Wong, who was crushed by the falling crane.
Construction sites are inherently dangerous places, with hazards around every corner. Even if you're just passing by or visiting the site, you could be at risk of serious injury from:
Falling objects, tools, or debris
Uneven or unstable walking surfaces
Improperly secured scaffolding or ladders
Exposed electrical wires or equipment
Heavy machinery and vehicles
Hazardous chemicals or materials
Crane accidents
These accidents can happen in an instant, leaving unsuspecting victims with catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain damage, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and more. The road to recovery can be long and challenging, requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time away from work.
If you've been injured in a construction accident in Seattle as a passerby or visitor, it's important to understand your legal rights. While workers' compensation laws may limit the ability of employees to sue their employers, these restrictions don't apply to innocent bystanders. You have the right to seek full and fair compensation from any party whose negligence contributed to your injuries, including:
Construction companies and contractors
Property owners
Equipment manufacturers
Architects and engineers
At Swanson Gardner Meyers Cohon PLLC, our experienced Seattle construction accident attorneys will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident to identify all liable parties. We'll gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build a strong case on your behalf.
Construction accident cases can be complex, involving multiple parties and competing interests. After a construction accident, you may be bombarded with calls from insurance adjusters pressuring you to accept a quick settlement. While it may be tempting to take the money and move on, doing so could be a grave mistake.
Remember: insurance companies are businesses whose primary goal is to protect their bottom line – not to ensure you're fully compensated for your losses. They may dangle a lowball offer in front of you, hoping you'll sign away your rights before you understand the true extent of your damages.
Unfortunately, their lowball offers rarely account for the full extent of your losses, including:
Current and future medical expenses
Lost wages and earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Disability and disfigurement
Loss of enjoyment of life
Our attorneys will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you need to rebuild your life. We're not afraid to challenge powerful construction companies and their insurers, and we'll take your case to trial if necessary to secure the best possible outcome.
If you're considering legal action after a construction accident, you likely have many questions about the process ahead. Here are a few common concerns we hear from our clients:
At Swanson Gardner Meyers Cohon PLLC, we work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only collect a fee if we win your case, so you can pursue justice without worrying about out-of-pocket costs.
In most cases, you have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. However, it's best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure evidence is preserved.
Not necessarily. Many cases can be resolved through settlement negotiations without a trial. However, if the other side refuses to offer a fair settlement, we'll be ready to advocate for you in court.
Washington follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. Our attorneys can help you understand how this rule may apply to your case.
If you've been injured in a Seattle construction accident as a passerby or visitor, don't wait to seek the legal representation you deserve. The sooner you contact Swanson Gardner Meyers Cohon PLLC, the sooner we can start building your case and fighting for your rights.
Don't let negligent construction companies and their insurers avoid accountability for the harm they've caused. Demand the justice you deserve with Swanson Gardner Meyers Cohon PLLC in your corner.
Contact us today or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation. Together, we can secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life and send a powerful message that construction site safety must be a top priority for all.
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