FL H3511

Leon County is authorized to appropriate $1.15 million to Angela Sanford as compensation for injuries sustained in a September 5, 2013 vehicle accident caused by negligence of Leon County ambulance driver Benjamin Hunter.

The ambulance operated by Hunter entered an intersection against a red light at speeds exceeding 40 mph and broadsided Sanford's vehicle, causing life-threatening injuries including traumatic brain bleed, organ damage, multiple fractures, and permanent disabilities that prevented her from continuing her career as an elementary school teacher.

A trial court entered a final judgment of $1.15 million in favor of Sanford on April 13, 2015; Leon County's liability insurance will cover 100 percent of the appropriation up to its $3 million policy limit.

The $1.15 million payment combined with the $300,000 already paid to other injured persons constitutes sole compensation for all present and future claims related to the accident.

Attorney fees, lobbying fees, costs, and similar expenses may not exceed 25 percent of the $1.15 million awarded under this act.