FL S0018

Appropriates $697,500 to compensate the Estate of Dr. Sherrill Lynn Aversa for her death resulting from a June 21, 1999 accident on Interstate 75 caused by Department of Transportation negligence.

An unsecured 12-foot extension ladder flew from a DOT truck, causing another vehicle to swerve across the median and strike Dr. Aversa's vehicle, killing her instantly.

Directs the Executive Office of the Governor to establish spending authority from unappropriated DOT trust fund balances for the payment, which includes attorney fees and costs.

Limits attorney fees, lobbying fees, costs, and similar expenses to no more than 25 percent of the awarded amount.

The $697,500 payment combined with the $100,000 already paid by DOT under statutory liability limits constitutes sole compensation for all present and future claims arising from this incident.