FL H3515

Palm Beach County is directed to appropriate $100,000 as compensation to Javier Soria for injuries sustained in an April 17, 2007 accident caused by negligence of county employee Juan Sepeda Casas, who failed to stop at a stop sign while exiting a maintenance complex and struck Soria's motorcycle.

Soria sustained severe injuries including subarachnoid hemorrhage, right-elbow fracture, multiple lacerations, and a right-knee tear requiring multiple surgeries and ongoing treatment, with total economic damages exceeding $1.3 million (past medical expenses of $200,254 and future expenses of approximately $640,000).

Soria also suffers permanent cognitive impairment including post-traumatic stress disorder, memory loss, mood swings, panic attacks, and chronic pain that limit his daily activities and ability to support his three children.

The payment of $100,000 combined with amounts paid under section 768.28, Florida Statutes (likely $200,000 from the earlier settlement mentioned) constitutes sole compensation for all present and future claims against Palm Beach County relating to this incident.

Attorney fees, lobbying fees, costs, and similar expenses relating to this claim may not exceed 25 percent of the total amount awarded under the act.