Jury Awards $13.3M in Workplace Injury Lawsuit Over Falling Plywood

Case Background
Jean Carlo Anguelov Rodriguez lived in Miami-Dade County, Florida. On November 14, 2017, he visited a commercial property located at 3655 NW 78th Avenue in Doral, Florida. APDC Corporation and United Ceramics Corporation owned, operated, or managed the premises. Armando Alvarez and Miguel Angel Crespo worked at the property as agents or employees of these companies. Rodriguez lawfully entered the premises as an invitee.
Cause
While on the property, Rodriguez stood near a stack of plywood sheets. Alvarez instructed Crespo to continue stacking them. As Crespo did so, the plywood collapsed without warning. Rodriguez was crushed beneath the falling sheets. The plaintiff alleged the defendants failed to supervise, guide, or train workers properly. He also claimed they lacked proper equipment and failed to secure the stacked materials. The lawsuit argued this negligence created an unsafe and dangerous condition.
Injury
The collapsing plywood caused Rodriguez serious, permanent injuries. He experienced physical pain and emotional suffering. His injuries included disfigurement, limited mobility, and a worsened pre-existing condition. These injuries disrupted his ability to work and lead a normal life. He continued to suffer long after the incident.
Damages
Rodriguez sought damages exceeding $50,000. He claimed loss of income, reduced earning capacity, and long-term medical expenses. He also demanded compensation for physical and mental pain, anguish, and permanent disability. The complaint included costs fo
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