Title: IN2 Workers' Compensation MD #642752

Recommendation:
I recommend that the School Board approve the Worker's Compensation claim  642752 in the amount of $75,000 representing compensation, attorneys' fees and costs and authorize the execution of all related documents.  This settlement will finalize all outstanding issues.

Description:

The Settlement of this claim was recommended by the District's outside counsel and claim adjusters and has been approved by the Chief Counsel, Chief Financial Officer and Director of Employee Benefits and Risk Management as required by District Policy #6.09.

A now 62 year old Food Service Worker sustained right ankle and back injuries  in 2004 after a slip and fall.  Injuries resulted in four surgeries involving the right ankle and right knee. This settlement anticipates  that the injuries will soon result into a permanent and total disability.  The present value of the total future exposure is estimated at over $288,000 if  not settled.

The District has paid over $101,000 in medical benefits, wage loss and expenses to date.  Excess reimbursement is not anticipated  since our self-insured retention is $500,000.  The attorney fees paid out of the settlement totals $18,000 which represents a statutory fee on this type of settlement.

 The settlement will extinguish all future liabilities.

Financial Impact:
The financial  impact to the District for this settlement is $75,000.  The source of funds is the General Fund.

For Additional Information, contact:
Joseph M. Moore (moorej@palmbeach.k12.fl.us)/ Dianne L. Howard