Injured motorcyclist sues truck driver

A motorcyclist is suing a truck driver for hitting his bike while attempting to turn, causing the motorcycle to fall on top its rider.

Jerry Dell Jr. filed the lawsuit against Jimmy L. Wilkerson of Waterloo on March 18 in St. Clair County Circuit Court, alleging negligence in the March 2013 collision.

According to the complaint, Dell was operating a motorcycle while traveling eastbound on Carol St. in Cahokia through its intersection with Mousette Drive. Wilkerson, who was parked in a 2004 Dodge Dakota at the northern edge of Carol St., attempted a left-hand turn from the roadside into an adjoining parking lot, according to court documents.

The suit states that the defendant pulled his truck into the path of the plaintiff’s motorcycle, failed to yield the right of way and caused the motorcycle to collide with the front of the truck. As a result, the motorcycle allegedly fell over, pinning Dell underneath.

The complaint asserts that the defendant failed to maintain a careful lookout, maintain a proper speed for existing conditions, stay in control of his vehicle and exercise ordinary care in its operation.

Dell alleges severe, progressive and disabling injuries to his neck, back, and spine; left shoulder, hand and wrist; and pelvis. He also claims he incurred medical expenses and endured significant pain and suffering.

Dell is seeking damages in excess of $50,000, plus attorneys’ fees and costs. He is represented in the case by attorney Matthew Nagel of BiState Injury Law Center in Chesterfield, Mo.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number 15-L-168