FL S0016

Authorizes the Pasco County Sheriff's Office to pay Jennifer Wohlgemuth $8,624,754.40 for injuries sustained due to negligence of Deputy Kenneth Petrillo, who struck her vehicle on January 3, 2005.

Deputy Petrillo was driving at speeds exceeding the posted limit by 20 mph, ran a red light without activated siren or lights during a high-speed pursuit, and struck the passenger side of Wohlgemuth's vehicle.

Wohlgemuth suffered severe brain injuries including subdural hematoma and subarachnoid hemorrhage, resulting in coma, permanent memory loss, vision loss, and requiring 24-hour supervision; trial court awarded $8,724,754.40 in damages on March 12, 2009.

Payment combined with the $100,000 statutory limit already paid constitutes sole compensation for all present and future claims arising from the accident.

Limits attorney fees, lobbying fees, and related costs to a maximum of 25 percent of the amount awarded under this act.