title
RAYFIELD RICHARDSON vs. CITY OF GAINESVILLE (B)
recommendation
The City Commission 1) approve the terms of the settlement agreement; and 2) authorize the City Attorney to settle the case styled Rayfield Richardson vs. City of Gainesville.
explanation
Mr. Richardson has filed a claim alleging that on February 23, 2009 his vehicle was struck from behind by an RTS bus near the intersection of SW 23rd Street and SR 331. Mr. Richardson asserts that he stopped his vehicle on the side of the road, next to the curb, and that the RTS bus veered into him. The accident was investigated by the Gainesville Police Department, and the City bus driver was cited for careless driving. The impact caused Mr. Richardson's head to strike the windshield of his vehicle, resulting in a concussion and momentary loss of consciousness. Mr. Richardson alleges he has sustained permanent injuries. His treating chiropractor has assigned a permanent whole body injury impairment rating of eleven percent. Initially, Mr. Richardson sought damages in the amount of $47,500.
The parties have engaged in settlement negotiations, and have reached a negotiated settlement for all claims of Mr. Richardson in the amount of $25,000, subject to the approval of the City Commission and a full and final release executed by Mr. Richardson. It is the recommendation of Risk Management and the City Attorney's Office that the case be settled for that amount.