Scottsdale settlement stems from accident involving unmarked police vehicle
By Terrance Thornton | Digital Free Press
Scottsdale City Council is moving forward with a $105,000 out-of-court settlement to settle claims against the municipality stemming from a September 2021 motor vehicle accident in the Town of Gilbert involving an unmarked Scottsdale police vehicle.
Scottsdale City Council approved the six-figure settlement whereas the plaintiff, John Reddell, was originally seeking $600,000 in damages, documents show.
“This lawsuit stems from a motor vehicle accident that occurred on Sept. 28, 2021, at the intersection of south Greenfield Road and east Queen Creek Road in Gilbert. Plaintiff John Reddell was the driver and sole occupant of his vehicle when he collided with an unmarked city of Scottsdale police vehicle being driven by a Scottsdale detective,” said Scottsdale City Attorney in her Feb. 20 report to City Council pointing out Mr. Reddell is retired.
“Mr. Reddell alleges he had the right-of-way when he entered the intersection on a green traffic signal and collided with the detective’s vehicle after the detective failed to stop on a red light. The city of Scottsdale detective was cited for failing to stop at a red light.”
In his claim against the municipality, Mr. Reddell alleged injuries including scalp and upper extremity lacerations, neck strain, a closed head injury, headaches, and a lower back injury ultimately requiring surgery.
“Mr. Reddell has incurred approximately $65,000 in medical bills and claims lost income of approximately $40,400,” Ms. Scott reported to City Council. “The parties participated in formal mediation with an independent mediator on Jan. 23, 2024, and agreed, subject to City Council approval, to resolve the litigation for $105,000.00.”
Scottsdale unanimously approved the out-of-court settlement at its Feb. 20 regular meeting during approval of the consent agenda that evening.
