School bus driver claims motorist who caused collision was intoxicated

A school bus driver alleges he suffered head, back and neck injuries after a motorist rear-ended his bus.

Michael Cotton filed a lawsuit Jan. 22 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Tiffany E. Spears and David K. Curlee.

In his complaint, Cotton alleges he was driving an Illinois Central school bus north on South Smiley Street at East Fourth Street in O'Fallon when Spears, who was driving north on the same road, rear-ended his vehicle.

In addition to his injuries, Cotton suffered great physical pain, incurred medical costs, experienced pain and suffering and endured mental anguish, according to the complaint. He also lost the joys and pleasures of life, the suit states.

Cotton blames Spears for causing the collision, saying she negligently drove too fast, failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to signal of her impending approach, drove while under the influence of alcohol and drove too fast.

Cotton also names Curlee as a defendant, saying he owned the vehicle Spears was driving at the time of the collision.

Cotton seeks a judgment of more than $100,000, plus costs and other relief the court deems just. Attorney James R. Cantalin, of Brown and Crouppen in St. Louis, will represent Cotton.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 15-L-41.