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A resolution authorizing the Metropolitan Department of Law to compromise and settle the personal injury action of Riley Olson against the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County in the amount of $237,447.12, and that said amount be paid out of the Self-Insured Liability Fund.
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WHEREAS, on January 4, 2024, Plaintiff Riley Olson was injured in the course and scope of his employment with Metro Water Services. Mr. Olson alleges that the injuries he sustained were proximately caused by the negligence of Metro, and,
WHEREAS, after investigation, the Metropolitan Department of Law believes that the settlement listed in Section 1 is fair and reasonable and in the best interest of the Metropolitan Government, and recommends that any and all claims or causes of action brought or that could have been brought by Riley Olson related to the events detailed above, be compromised and settled for $237,447.12, and that this amount be paid from the Self-Insured Liability Fund.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1: The Metropolitan Department of Law is authorized to compromise and settle the personal injury claim of Riley Olson for the sum of $237,447.12, with said amount to be paid from the Self-Insured Liability Fund.
Section 2: This resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.
Agenda Analysis
Analysis
On January 4, 2024, Metro Water Services employee Riley Olson was cutting through a water main when the cut-off saw that he was using kicked back and struck him in the face. Mr. Olson was not given specific training on the cut-off saw, and the personal protective equipment that he was wearing fell off when struck by the saw.
Mr. Olson suffered a jagged laceration across his face and fractures to his nose, maxillary sinus, and right mandible. He has undergone multiple procedures, including two reconstructive surgeries, to address these injuries. Mr. Olson retains a disfiguring scar from the bridge of his nose to his right ear. He has been diagnosed with PTSD.
Mr. Olson’s medical bills were paid through the Metropolitan Government’s Injury on Duty program. Mr. Olson also sued the Metropolitan Government for negligence and failure to provide a safe workplace.
The parties have participated in settlement negotiations and have agreed upon the settlement amount of $237,447.12, subject to approval from the Metropolitan Council. The Department of Law recommends settlement of Mr. Olson’s claims for $237,447.12.
Following this incident, Metro Water Services immediately discontinued its use of the cut-off saw and purchased a new cut-off machine with wheel brake technology that stops the wheel in less than a second during kickbacks. A new helmet particularly designed to protect against kickbacks was also purchased.
Metro Water Services also retained an outside firm to review all current safety protocols, including updated training. The program deliverables were comprehensive.
Fiscal Note: The total settlement amount is $237,447.12. This settlement, along with Resolution No. RS2026-1924, would be the 25th and 26th payments, after approval by Metropolitan Council, from the Self-Insured Liability Fund in FY26 for a cumulative total of $3,270,547. The fund balance would be $10,681,565 after this payment.