City Commission to Consider $105K Accident Settlement

On Wednesday March, 6, 2024, the City Commission will consider a settlement that will resolve the claims of Jennifer Marks against the City of Tallahassee for $105,000. The settlement has been approved by the Liability Oversight Committee and will be paid from Risk Management funds.

The settlement stems from an accident involving a TPD officer. According to the agenda item, on December 4, 2019, Jennifer Marks was driving on Capital Circle SW. She was stopped in the left turn lane when she was struck from behind by TPD Officer Curtis Bridges. Officer Bridges was found to be at fault at the scene of the crash. As a result of the crash, Ms. Marks injured her neck, left shoulder, and left wrist due to the impact from the accident. She has had extensive medical treatment from a local neurologist, as Ms. Marks has continued neck, shoulder, and wrist pain.

Ms. Marks filed suit against the City of Tallahassee seeking damages for the past and future medical expenses, lost wages, past and future pain and suffering, and other damages recoverable under Florida law. To the extent of medical treatment Ms. Marks received, her past medical and out of pocket expenses are in excess of $20,000. She has received medical treatment for four years, and she is expected to have continued medical treatment for her neck, shoulder, and wrist. 

The case was negotiated through a mediation with Plaintiff’s attorney, Craig Richards, and the City Attorney’s Office in which the parties were able to resolve all of Ms. Marks’ claims.

Due to the total settlement amount exceeding $100,000, per City Commission Policy 200, City Commission approval is required to settle this matter.