DEPARTMENT: City Attorney’s Office
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Andy Segovia, City Attorney
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: City Wide
SUBJECT:
Settlement of a lawsuit styled Tanya Walker v. City of San Antonio, et. al
SUMMARY:
This item authorizes the settlement of a lawsuit styled Tanya Walker v. City of San Antonio, et. al; Cause Number 2018-CI-23121, pending in Bexar County District Court in the amount of $67,500.00. This amount will be paid from the Self-Insurance Liability Fund.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
An auto accident occurred on January 19, 2017 in the 3400 block of Vance Jackson involving a privately owned vehicle and a City owned vehicle being operated by an employee of the City’s Metropolitan Health Department. Plaintiff Tanya Walker was a rear seat passenger in the City Health Department vehicle and suffered injuries, incurred medical expenses and is seeking to recover damages.
The parties have agreed to settle the claims of Ms. Walker for $67,500.00, subject to City Council approval. The funds are available from the Self-Insurance Liability Fund.
ISSUE:
Settlements over $50,000 require City Council approval.
ALTERNATIVES:
If this settlement is not approved by the City Council, this case will proceed to a jury trial. It is in the best interest of the City to settle this matter to avoid the uncertainties and risks associated with litigation.
FISCAL IMPACT:
If approved, $67,500.00 will be paid to Tanya Walker and her attorney of record, Clay Morgan with the BSJ Law Group. This will be funded in accordance with the FY 2020 Liability Fund Adopted Budget.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of this item.