Rainwater, Holt & Sexton secures $3 Million verdict for “Christmas shopping nightmare”
On December 13, 2013, Aisha Siddiqui was shopping at the Park Plaza Mall when her boot was pulled into the escalator. Her foot was caught in a gap in the escalator teeth and, as a result, she lost her big toe.
Siddiqui was planning to attend medical school to pursue a career as a surgeon when the escalator injury occurred. Her injury delayed her studies and significantly impacted her physical health. Rainwater, Holt & Sexton attorney Denise Hoggard was there to support her. The defense attorney argued Siddiqui was only entitled to $500,000—but Hoggard wouldn’t take no for an answer.
“This case wasn’t about the loss of a big toe,” Hoggard said. “It’s also about the physical, emotional, social and economic consequences of that loss. She is going to have to deal with this problem her entire life.”
Through the use of pictures and security camera video Hoggard showed the jury the extent of the escalator injury as well as the actual video of how long Siddiqui was entrapped in the machinery. Experts and witnesses testified on behalf of Siddiqui and also discussed the future impact on her physical health. The escalator company, Kone Inc., and Park Plaza Mall acknowledged they were at-fault.
Siddiqui pursued this case to bring awareness companies who are responsible for public safety and Hoggard helped her do just that. Hoggard was persistent, compassionate and thorough as she supported Siddiqui through her devastating escalator injury.
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