'Not my fault, your fault,' according to new SCC suit

Taking offense at being sued for an auto accident he claims he didn't cause, Keith Harris recently counter sued D'Jamel Guellil in St. Clair County Circuit Court.

Guellil first sued Harris on Feb. 10 claiming his Dodge Caravan was rear-ended by Harris' Ford Explorer at Route 161 and Roger Street in Swansea on March 4, 2003.

Now, Harris--along with Debby and Cassie Harris-are taking issue with Guellil alleging that he abruptly swerved into their lane of traffic, rapidly decreased his speed, and quickly turned onto Roger Street. All of that caused Harris to collide into Guellil’s vehicle.

Harris claims as a result of Guellil’s alleged negligence he sustained permanent and disfiguring injuries to his head, neck, back and entire body. He state he suffers great pain and mental anguish and has incurred hospital and medical expenses.

Plaintiffs, represented by Michael Cook of Belleville, are seeking at least $50,000 each in damages for injuries.

Debby and Cassie Harris claim they sustained permanent and disfiguring injuries to their head, neck, back and entire body and suffer great pain and mental anguish.

In Guellil's suit, the complaint claims Harris was driving too fast for conditions, failed to keep a proper lookout for other cars on the roadway, failed to reduce speed to avoid a collision, failed to use reasonable care to avoid a collision and operating a vehicle on a public roadway when he knew it was not in a mechanically sound condition.

Guellil is represented by Kevin Boyne of Belleville. Guellil alleges he was injured and suffered a disability and disfigurement, pain and suffering, medical bills, loss of income and aggravation of a pre-existing condition.

05 L 156 (20th Circuit)