FL S0048

The City of Tampa is directed to appropriate and pay $17,828,800 to Ramiro Companioni as compensation for injuries sustained from a November 22, 1996 motorcycle accident caused by negligence of a city employee.

A 2004 jury verdict found the City of Tampa 90 percent at fault and assessed damages of $17,928,800; the city has already paid $100,000 under sovereign immunity limits, leaving a balance of $17,828,800.

Attorney fees, lobbying fees, costs, and other similar expenses relating to this claim are capped at 25 percent of the award amount.

The payment constitutes sole compensation for all present and future claims arising from the accident that caused Companioni's catastrophic injuries, including loss of internal organs, spinal fractures, nerve damage, and permanent disability.