FL H0603

Appropriates $650,000 from the General Revenue Fund to the Department of Health for compensation to Yvonne Morton for injuries sustained in a January 2, 2007 automobile accident caused by a Department of Health employee.

The accident involved William Herbert, a pharmacy inspector, who failed to yield at a stop sign while driving a state vehicle, striking Ms. Morton's car and causing multiple fractured ribs, scalp hematoma, and central cord syndrome requiring neck surgery.

Ms. Morton incurred approximately $570,000 in medical expenses through July 31, 2009, including hospitalizations, surgeries, nursing home care, and assisted living facility fees, with her independence and mobility permanently impaired.

The Department of Health admitted liability and agreed not to contest the claim bill as long as compensation did not exceed $650,000 in addition to the statutory liability limit of $100,000 already paid under Florida law.

Limits attorney's fees, lobbying fees, costs, and other expenses to no more than 25 percent of the $650,000 award, with this payment serving as sole compensation for all present and future claims related to the accident.