FL H6551

Authorizes and directs the City of Tampa to pay $17,828,800 plus 7 percent annual interest to Ramiro Companioni for injuries sustained in a November 22, 1996 motorcycle accident caused by a negligent city employee.

A Hillsborough County jury on March 26, 2004 found the City of Tampa 90 percent at fault and awarded damages of $17,928,800; the City has already paid $100,000 under sovereign immunity limits, leaving a balance of $17,828,800 plus interest.

Medical expenses totaled more than $1.2 million and Mr. Companioni suffered catastrophic injuries including loss of the large intestine, spinal fractures, severed sciatic nerve, and permanent disabilities requiring colostomy and catheter.

Compensation paid by the City under this act and prior sovereign immunity payments constitute 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 amount awarded under this act.