Title
SPECIAL CLAIM SC-1516-3: A CLAIM IN THE NEGOTIATED AMOUNT OF $1,750 SUBMITTED BY ALICE RAVENSCROFT FOR DAMAGES TO HER VEHICLE BY A SANITATION VEHICLE AT 3901 SOUTH CHAUTAUQUA AVENUE.
Body
BACKGROUND: A claim has been filed by Alice Ravenscroft in the amount of $3,228.28 for damage to her vehicle, a 2006 Ford Taurus. The damages occurred on August 10, 2015, when a City of Norman sanitation truck hit her vehicle which was parked at the Transfer Station at 3901 S. Chautauqua.
DISCUSSION: This claim was investigated by Bret Scovill, Utilities Manager. According to his investigation, Ms. Ravenscroft’s vehicle was being driven by her grandson who is a temporary employee of the City of Norman and who is working at the Transfer Station. Ms. Ravenscroft’s grandson had parked the vehicle and, at some point thereafter, a City sanitation truck parked next to the vehicle. When the City sanitation truck left the parking space, the City sanitation truck hit Ms. Ravenscroft’s vehicle.
Ms. Ravenscroft obtained two estimates regarding the damage to her vehicle with the lowest estimate being $3,228.28. However, due to the age of her vehicle and the mileage on the vehicle, it was not feasible to repair the vehicle. According to Kelly Blue Book and NADA, the vehicle has a value of approximately $2,200. The settlement offer of $1,750 was made to Ms. Ravenscroft and includes Ms. Ravenscroft retaining the vehicle. She has accepted this settlement offer.
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 settlement amount offered by the City and agreed to by Ms. Ravenscroft in the amount of $1,750 appears reasonable.
RECOMMENDATION: Based upon the above and foregoing, it is the recommendation of the City Attorney’s office that the claim of Alice Ravenscroft in the amount of $3,228.28 be settled for an agreed amount of $1,750.