Taking The First Offer Is Good, Right? A $22.75 Million Lesson

I’m Bryan with MidHudson Injury Law, and I believe every case deserves a fierce advocate. You may have seen the recent news about Maruf Hossain, a New York City deliveryman who suffered catastrophic injuries in a subway accident. His story is a powerful reminder that when you face a large organization like the MTA, you must not take the first offer.

In 2017, Mr. Hossain was simply doing his job when he tripped on a crumbling subway platform in the Bronx. He fell onto the tracks, and a train struck him. This accident cost him all five toes on his left foot, fractured his pelvis, and caused him other severe injuries. The MTA, the powerful transit authority, quickly offered a settlement. They offered him a measly $100,000, hoping he would accept and go away. But Mr. Hossain refused to be bullied.

Instead of taking the first offer, Mr. Hossain hired an attorney who fought for him. The MTA’s defense was not only aggressive but downright deceptive, claiming Mr. Hossain attempted suicide and even presenting a witness they likely coached. Their legal strategy was to delay, deny, and defend at any cost.

But the jury saw through their lies. The MTA’s tactics backfired, and on June 30, a jury delivered a staggering verdict of $22.75 million in Mr. Hossain’s favor—$2.75 million more than his initial request. Read more about the verdict here. This incredible win proves that justice is possible when you have the right legal team fighting for you.

For our clients here in the Mid-Hudson Valley, the lesson from this case hits particularly close to home. Many of us use Metro-North for our daily commute or travel to the city for work or pleasure. Whether a driver’s negligence causes an accident on the Taconic State Parkway or Route 9 in Poughkeepsie, you suffer a slip and fall in a local business, or a defective platform causes you harm on your commute, be very wary of first offers. Insurance companies and powerful corporations hope you’re vulnerable, scared, and willing to accept less than you deserve.

Maruf Hossain’s victory is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of a skilled personal injury attorney. For another example of a large verdict against the MTA, see this case where a bicyclist won a substantial settlement. If an accident has seriously injured you or a loved one, don’t try to fight the system alone. We’re here to help you get the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Remember, don’t take the first offer. Call us today for a free consultation.