BREWSTER- A 30-year-old dog trainer who suffered extensive orthopedic, neurological, and psychological injuries after a dump truck rolled backward into his vehicle on Prospect Hill Road in Brewster three and one-half years ago has won a $3.4 million settlement.
Michael Harrison suffered serious trauma on September 12, 2022, when a dump truck operated by Diego E. Vargas Gonzalez and owned by Con-Tech Construction Technology, stalled on a hill and rolled in reverse, striking the front of Harrison’s sedan. Liability was conceded by the defendants.
Following the collision, Harrison was transported by ambulance and later diagnosed with multiple cervical and lumbar disc herniations, bilateral meniscus tears, bilateral shoulder labrum and rotator cuff tears, and a concussion with post-concussion syndrome.
He underwent numerous surgeries and extended physical therapy but according to his attorney, Michael LoGiudice of Southeast: “Mr. Harrison’s injuries left him unable to return to his work as a dog trainer and significantly limited his daily functioning, including caring for his young child.”
After extensive expert analysis—including radiology, orthopedic surgery, accident reconstruction, economics, and vocational rehabilitation—the parties reached a pre-trial resolution. The defendants’ insurer tendered its $1 million underlying policy and contributed an additional $2.425 million from its excess coverage.
LoGiudice said: “Michael’s life changed in an instant because of a preventable equipment failure. He endured multiple surgeries, chronic pain, and the loss of the career he loved. This settlement provides the resources he needs to move forward, and it reflects the seriousness of the harm he suffered. We’re proud to have fought for him and his family.”
Comments