Hydraulic Damage Leads to $22.75 Million Verdict Against MTA

A jury awarded $22.75 million in damages to a bike courier who lost all five toes on his left foot after falling from a damaged Bronx subway platform in 2017. The incident occurred when Maruf Hossain, then 24, tripped on a deteriorated section of the platform and was struck by an oncoming train, resulting in severe injuries including dislocated hip, fractured pelvis, head trauma, and spinal fractures.

Hossain testified he does not suffer from any psychiatric disorders or suicidal tendencies. A psychiatric exam performed shortly after the accident indicated he had no suicidal ideation and was mentally stable, with no history of depression or substance abuse. He reported he was fasting for Ramadan at the time and was trying to get to work in a crowded station.

Man lying in a hospital bed with IVs. — Bicycle delivery worker Maruf Hossain lost the toes on his left foot when he fell onto the tracks after tripping on a cracked platform.

The lawsuit accused the MTA of negligence in maintaining the platform, which caused Hossain to trip. The transit authority argued that Hossain tried to jump in front of the train, with witnesses alleging he attempted suicide. However, evidence suggested the agency authored a witness statement that falsely depicted the event as a jump, a claim the jury accepted.

His lawyer highlighted the MTA’s efforts to dismiss the case and settle for only $100,000, a refusal that led to the lawsuit. The jury’s decision exceeded Hossain’s initial demand of $20 million, reflecting a rejection of the agency’s negligence denial.

Severely injured foot in a hospital bed. — The severed toes on Hossain’s left foot illustrate the extent of his injuries.

Medical evaluations confirmed that Hossain sustained lasting injuries, requiring ongoing care. While the verdict is significant, it is not the largest against the MTA; previous cases have resulted in higher awards, though some have been reduced on appeal.