FL S0034

Appropriates $1,092,040 plus taxable costs to compensate Amie Draiemann Stephenson (as Personal Representative of the Estate), and surviving minor children Hailey Morgan Stephenson and Christian Darby Stephenson, II, for the wrongful death of Christian Darby Stephenson.

Death resulted from a August 12, 2000 accident on Hart Bridge Expressway in Duval County where a gasoline tanker jackknifed and exploded after a Jeep hydroplaned in standing water caused by a clogged drain maintained by the Department of Transportation.

Jury verdict in 2005 (Case No. 01-03428 CA) determined the Department of Transportation was 36 percent negligent and liable; total damages awarded were $3.589 million ($1.3 million to estate, $763,000 to widow, $1 million to one child, $526,000 to other child).

Department of Transportation previously paid $200,000 under section 768.28, Florida Statutes; this appropriation covers the remaining 36 percent liability owed.

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