TRANSMITTAL LETTER FOR BOARD MEETING OF JANUARY 3, 2013
COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
Mr. David St. Pierre, Executive Director
Title
Authority to settle the claim of Lakesha Clifford relating to a January 6, 2012 vehicle accident, in the amount of $30,000.00, Account 901-30000-667220
Body
Dear Sir:
On January 6, 2012, Lakesha Clifford was crossing Wentworth Avenue near 63rd St. on foot when she was struck by a District vehicle driven by Patricia Horton. Ms. Clifford was transported by ambulance from the scene of the accident to the hospital where she was treated for head and other injuries. Ms. Clifford also received follow up care for her injuries. Ms. Clifford was unable to return to work for several days after the accident due to her injuries, and was later released by her employer.
Ms. Clifford retained counsel to pursue a claim for damages against the District. The Law Department obtained and reviewed copies of Ms. Clifford's medical and employment records. After extensive negotiation, Ms. Clifford has agreed to settle her claim against the District for $30,000.00.
The General Counsel finds the proposed settlement to the District to be reasonable and acceptable. The settlement offer takes into account both the nature of the accident, Ms. Clifford's injuries, and her employment. The General Counsel does not believe that the District would be able to obtain a better result by allowing this case to proceed to trial.
Therefore, the General Counsel requests that the Board of Commissioners approve the settlement of Ms. Clifford's claim in the total amount of $30,000.00. Additionally, the General Counsel requests authority to execute such documents as may be necessary to effectuate this settlement.
Requested, Ronald M. Hill, General Counsel, RMH:LLD:EMA:crb
Respectfully Submitted, Mariyana T. Spyropoulos, Vice-Chairman Committee on Judiciary
Disposition of this agenda item will be documented in the official Regular Board Meeting Minutes of the Board of Commissioners for January 3, 2013