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SPECIAL CLAIM NO. SC-1314-4: A CLAIM IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,001.73 SUBMITTED BY ROBERT K. WATSON, JR., FOR DAMAGES TO HIS VEHICLE DUE TO UNSECURED TOOLS FALLING OUT OF A STREET MAINTENANCE VEHICLE ON WEST ROBINSON STREET.
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BACKGROUND: A claim has been filed by Robert K. Watson, Jr. for damages to his vehicle on April 25, 2013 in the amount of $2,001.73. Mr. Watson alleges that several tools fell out of the bed of a City of Norman Street Maintenance vehicle on Robinson Street, striking and damaging his vehicle.
DISCUSSION: This incident was investigated by Greg Hall, Street Superintendent. According to his investigation, a Street Maintenance truck was traveling eastbound on Robinson Street near Woods Avenue on the afternoon of April 25, 2013. Mr. Watson's vehicle was traveling westbound in the same area. The Street Division employee driving the truck did not secure the tools adequately and several tools fell out of the bed of the truck and struck Mr. Watson's vehicle as the two vehicles passed each other on Robinson.
Therefore, as indicated above, there appears to be possible negligence on the part of the City in this matter and, consequently, potential liability on the City. The amount claimed by Mr. Watson appears to be reasonable.
RECOMMENDATION: Based upon the above and foregoing, it is the recommendation of the City Attorney's Office that the claim by Robert K. Watson, Jr. for damage to his vehicle in the amount of $2,001.73, as above set forth, be approved.