Finocchi v. Live Nation Inc.
Carmen J. Finocchi, Jr. sustained injuries while manually loading rigging equipment, leading to a lawsuit against Live Nation Inc. The Supreme Court initially dismissed the complaint, ruling that Finocchi's failure to use an available forklift was the sole proximate cause of his injuries. On appeal, the Appellate Division, Fourth Department, reversed this decision. The appellate court found that Finocchi's choice not to use a forklift could not be deemed the sole proximate cause, particularly as he was instructed to lift the equipment manually. The court also affirmed that the work performed fell under the coverage of Labor Law § 240 (1), reinstating the claim, granting judgment on liability to the plaintiffs, and remitting for a new trial solely on the issue of damages.