A Henderson County, North Carolina jury delivered what attorneys believe is the largest personal injury verdict in state history, awarding $101 million in a lawsuit stemming from a fatal retaining wall collapse at a Hajoca plumbing supply facility in 2021. The case later settled confidentially after the verdict.
The accident occurred when a newly rebuilt section of retaining wall collapsed onto a masonry crew working at the site. One worker died and three others suffered severe injuries after being buried under concrete and dirt. Plaintiffs alleged that Hajoca, property stakeholders, and project supervisors failed to obtain proper engineering oversight, skipped permitting requirements, and allowed dirt to be loaded behind the wall before the concrete had sufficient curing time.
For insurance claims professionals, the case underscores the high severity exposure associated with construction defects, project management failures, and unsafe site conditions. The allegations involving permit violations, lack of engineering review, and premature loading conditions create a roadmap often seen in catastrophic liability claims involving commercial construction projects. Adjusters handling contractor liability, premises liability, and excess exposure files will recognize how documentation gaps and supervisory decisions can significantly increase damages during litigation…