New York City, New York — A Bronx jury has awarded nearly $23 million to a man who suffered life-altering injuries after falling onto a subway track in 2017 — a verdict seen as a major rebuke of the Metropolitan Transit Authority’s (MTA) handling of platform safety and litigation tactics.
Incident Details: A Life-Altering Fall
On June 5, 2017, Maruf Hossain, then 24, fell from the Parkchester Avenue subway station platform and was struck by a train. His injuries were catastrophic — including the amputation of all five toes on his left foot, dislocated hip, and extensive trauma to his neck, back, and limbs.
Hossain, a bicycle delivery worker, alleged in a lawsuit that the subway platform was “broken” and “uneven,” which caused him to trip and fall.
His legal team accused the MTA and the New York City Transit Authority of negligence in maintaining the platform.
MTA’s Defense Questioned
The defense attempted to argue that Hossain had jumped in front of the train, citing EMS records. But medical expert Dr. Kashaul Shah, who reviewed the case, said Hossain denied any suicidal intent, and a psychiatrist backed up his account.
Despite the MTA’s initial offer to settle for just $100,000, the jury saw differently — awarding Hossain $22.75 million on June 30.
“A Warning to Powerful Corporations”
Hossain’s attorney, Nick Liakas, condemned the MTA’s legal strategy.
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“Their litigation strategy has been clear: delay, deny, and defend — no matter the human cost. But this time, the jury delivered a powerful message: accountability matters,” Liakas said in a statement.
Hossain, now 31, said the verdict gives him “a second chance at living a normal life.”
What Do You Think?
Should transit agencies be held more accountable for platform conditions? Have you witnessed dangerous conditions at a subway station? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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