Route 4 collision subject of Madison County suit

Rodney D. and Kristina S. Grimsley have filed suit on behalf of themselves and two others against Zachary J. Nolker, alleging they were severely injured after a collision with the vehicle Nolker was driving.

The Grimsleys claim that on Feb. 18, 2007, at about 6:19 p.m., Rodney was driving his 2004 Chrysler Town and Country north on State Route 4 with three passengers in the van – Kristina, Garrett P. and Payton J. Grimsley, according to a suit filed Sept. 11 in Madison County.

They were about three-quarters of a mile south of the highway's intersection with St. Jacob/Ellis Road when Nolker, who was driving his 2005 Dodge Neon south on the state route, crossed the centerline in an attempt to pass a car, the suit states. As a result, he collided with the Grimsley's van, the suit states.

All four of the Grimsleys claim they were seriously injured, resulting in pain, suffering and a loss of enjoyment of a normal life. They also say they incurred substantial medical costs as a result of the accident.

Rodney and Kristina claim they suffered a loss of wages as a result of the accident.

Nolker was negligent because he failed to decrease his speed, failed to exercise reasonable care, failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to operate his vehicle in the correct lane and passed a vehicle in a no-passing zone, according to the complaint.

In the four-count suit, the Grimsleys are seeking a judgment in excess of $200,000, plus costs.

They have demanded a jury trial.

Christopher A. Koester of Taylor Law Offices in Effingham will be representing them.