South Florida Injury Lawyer Blog
A 1998 car accident left Eric Brody, now 29, paralyzed and severely brain damaged after a Broward County deputy ran into his car. At the time of the accident, Brody was a high school senior preparing for graduation. Now he will need care for the rest of his life.
He and his family are lobbying lawmakers in Tallahassee to pass a claims bill that would ensure that Brody can collect the nearly $31 million in injury compensation that he was awarded by a jury. The legislation is sponsored by Rep. Rachel Burgin, R-Brandon, and Sen. Ken Pruit, R-Port St. Lucie.
According to the Florida Constitution, governments are held liable up to $200,000 unless the Legislature passes a claims bill. Though lawmakers have approved close to two dozen claims bills, collecting the money has proved difficult because of Florida’s budget shortfall.
The family hopes that if lawmakers see Eric, the will understand the need to pass the Brody’s claims bill. The bill had not received a hearing in the Senate as of March 31, 2009.
Aid bill for Broward crash victim stalls, Miami Herald, March 31, 2009
Florida families want their injury compensation; State poses hurdle, CBS12.com, March 30, 2009
If you or a family member has been injured in a car crash or other accident, please contact a South Florida car accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.