Charleston Electrical Worker Wins $11M After Falling Through Unguarded Floor Opening
A Charleston electrical worker fell through an unguarded floor opening at a construction site and secured an $11 million verdict. David Traywick breaks down how third-party construction negligence claims can run alongside workers' comp in SC.
Informational purposes only. This article discusses a recent news event and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different — contact Traywick Law Offices for a free evaluation.
The Incident
On August 10, 2025, a Charleston electrical worker suffered a devastating fall at a local construction site. The worker fell through an unguarded floor opening, resulting in severe injuries that required extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. This tragic accident highlighted glaring safety deficiencies at the site, including the failure to properly secure or mark hazardous areas.
Following the incident, the worker pursued legal action against the construction site’s general contractor and other responsible parties. A Charleston jury ultimately awarded the worker an $11 million verdict, citing negligence in maintaining a safe working environment. This case underscores the importance of adhering to safety protocols and the legal accountability of third parties on construction sites.
What South Carolina Law Says
South Carolina law provides clear guidelines for workplace safety, particularly in construction environments. Under the South Carolina Occupational Safety and Health Act (SC Code § 41-15-10), employers and contractors are required to ensure safe working conditions and comply with OSHA standards. This includes securing floor openings and other hazards that could lead to injury.
Additionally, South Carolina law allows injured workers to pursue third-party claims alongside workers' compensation benefits. SC Code § 42-1-560 permits employees to file lawsuits against negligent third parties, such as contractors or equipment manufacturers, whose actions contributed to the injury. These claims can provide compensation beyond what workers' comp covers, including pain and suffering and punitive damages.
Your Rights and Options
If you’ve been injured in a workplace accident, you have rights under South Carolina law. First, you should report the injury to your employer immediately and file a workers' compensation claim. This will cover medical expenses and lost wages to some extent.
However, if a third party’s negligence contributed to your injury—as was the case in this Charleston incident—you may also have the right to file a civil lawsuit against that party. Documenting the scene, gathering witness statements, and consulting an experienced attorney are critical steps in building your case.
An attorney can help you navigate both workers' compensation and third-party claims, ensuring that you receive the maximum compensation allowed under the law. It’s essential to act quickly, as South Carolina’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically three years (SC Code § 15-3-530).
What I Look For When Evaluating These Cases
When evaluating workplace injury cases, I focus on the circumstances surrounding the accident. Was the hazard clearly marked? Were safety protocols ignored? Did a third party, such as a contractor or equipment supplier, fail to meet their legal obligations?
A strong case often includes clear evidence of negligence, such as photos of the unsafe condition, witness testimony, and documentation of prior safety violations. The severity of the injuries and their impact on the victim’s life also play a significant role in determining the case’s value.
How Insurance Companies Will Fight Back
Insurance companies representing third parties often attempt to minimize liability by shifting blame to the injured worker or other parties. They may argue that the worker was careless or that the employer bears sole responsibility for the accident.
These companies also frequently undervalue claims, offering settlements that fail to account for long-term medical costs, lost earning potential, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. An experienced attorney can counter these tactics with thorough evidence and expert testimony.
Related Practice Areas at Traywick Law Offices
At Traywick Law Offices, we handle cases involving workplace injuries, construction accidents, and third-party negligence. Learn more about our related practice areas:
My Final Thoughts
This $11 million verdict is a powerful reminder of the importance of safety in the workplace and the legal avenues available to injured workers. As a Charleston attorney, I am committed to holding negligent parties accountable and ensuring my clients receive the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured, don’t hesitate to seek legal guidance.
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