Broward County Commission Regular Meeting
Director's Name: Andrew J. Meyers
Department: County Attorney
Information
Requested Action
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MOTION TO APPROVE settlement, including costs and attorneys’ fees, in the case of William Henderson vs. Broward County, 17th Judicial Circuit Court Case No. CACE19-008447 (05).
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Why Action is Necessary
Board approval is necessary to resolve this pending lawsuit.
What Action Accomplishes
Settlement of pending litigation.
Is this Action Goal Related
No
Previous Action Taken
Summary Explanation/Background
On March 1, 2016, Plaintiff William Henderson was driving his automobile when he stopped at a red light on Broward Boulevard and 7th Avenue in Fort Lauderdale, and he was rear-ended by a Broward County bus. The Plaintiff filed a negligence action against the County alleging the accident caused him serious injuries. The Plaintiff has undergone substantial medical treatment after the incident, including surgery, and has been recommended for additional surgery in the future. His medical expenses, to date, are $147,458.06.
The Plaintiff has agreed to release Broward County from all claims arising from the incident in exchange for $150,000.00, which includes costs and attorneys’ fees, subject to Board approval.
The Risk Management Division and Transit Division recommend approval of this settlement.
Source of Additional Information
Robert D. Yates, Senior Assistant County Attorney, 954-357-7600
Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Impact/Cost Summary
The source of funds is the County’s general liability self-insurance fund. Agencies of the County pay annual premiums into the fund based upon the number of their employees and five-year claims history.