FL S0280

Authorizes the city of Haines City to appropriate and pay $978,445.84 to Thomas and Karen Brandi as compensation for injuries and damages from a March 26, 2005 vehicle accident involving a Haines City police officer.

Officer Pamela Graham entered an intersection against a red light at over 45 mph and broadsided Mr. Brandi's vehicle; an internal investigation found her at fault and with no evidence of responding to a dispatch call.

Thomas Brandi sustained life-threatening injuries including aortic arch tear, multiple fractures, and severe traumatic brain injury; a jury found the city 60 percent liable and awarded $1,084,396 after comparative negligence reduction.

The city previously paid $200,000 in sovereign immunity satisfaction; this bill authorizes the additional $978,445.84 payment, with combined payments serving as sole compensation for all present and future claims.

Limits attorney's fees, lobbying fees, costs, and similar expenses to a maximum of 25 percent of the total amount awarded under the act.