Eric Brody Payment OK'd By Florida House
TALLAHASSEE (CBS4) – After years of battling politicians, insurance companies, and the Florida legislature, Eric Brody should finally receive payment for losing the ability to walk after his car was struck by a patrol car driven by a Broward Sheriff's Deputy who was late for work. Monday, the Florida House followed the Senate and passed a $10.5 million claims bill.
An insurance company agreed to pay him, but lacked the state approval to write the check because of liability limits afforded local governments by state law. The family has been fighting everyone for 14 years, and came close last year, but the legislature adjourned before the House took action.
This year, the Senate bill passed on the first day of the session, but the House still waited until nearly the last minute this year to act. The session is set to end Friday.
Brody's bill is designed to provide lifetime care and therapy. A jury had awarded the family $30 million, but they settled for $10.75 million after years of battling the insurance company's lobbyists.
Brody was 18 when the crash paralyzed him and damaged his brain.
This year the Senate passed them on Jan. 10, the session's first day. President Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island, said he want to give the House plenty of time to act.
The bill must be signed by Governor Scott, before payments are made.
