Fairview Heights auto accident leads to suit

Gaylynn Minnigerode has filed suit against Dennis L. Gravot and Scott B. Morgan, claiming the muscles, ligaments, membranes, nerves, vertebra and intervertebral spaces in her back were injured because of a collision.

Minnigerode was driving south on Illinois Route 159 in Fairview Heights on Nov. 29, 2006, when Gravot hit Morgan, who then collided with her, according to the complaint filed Oct. 29 in St. Clair County Circuit Court.

In addition to her spinal injuries, Minnigerode suffered bruising and cuts from her seat belt and a shock to her nervous system, the suit states.

She also claims the shock to her nervous system resulted in the loss of the function of one of her legs and a fall that fractured her femur.

Minnigerode has incurred medical expenses and has lost money from her usual employment, according to the complaint.

In addition, she her future earning capacity has been damages and she has incurred property damage, the suit states.

Minnigerode claims Gravot and Morgan were negligent because they injured her, failed to maintain a proper lookout, drove too fast, drove without adequate brakes, failed to apply his brakes, failed to keep their vehicles under proper control and failed to stop or swerve to avoid a collision.

In addition, Gravot and Morgan negligently allowed their vehicles to follow more closely than was reasonable and struck Morgan's vehicle, according to the complaint.

In the two-count suit, Minnigerode is seeking a judgment in excess of $100,000, plus costs.

She is represented by Stan R. Weller of The Weller Law Firm in Belleville.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 08-L-551.