Accident on I-70 exit ramp leads to suit

A family has filed suit against a woman, alleging they were injured after she rear-ended them on an interstate exit ramp.

Ricky Eastern, Sr., Jenecia Eastern and Ricky Eastern, Jr., were traveling east on Interstate 70 and took the exit ramp at Cole Street in St. Louis on Sept. 27 when Cheri Chapman hit their vehicle from behind, according to the complaint filed Nov. 13 in St. Clair County Circuit Court.

Ricky Eastern, Sr., sustained injuries to his neck, shoulder, back, legs, knees and feet, the suit states.

Jenecia Eastern claims she received injuries to her neck, shoulder, low back, arms, legs and knees.

Ricky Eastern, Jr., suffered injuries to his neck, shoulder and low back, according to the complaint.

All three claim they were made sick, sore, lame disordered and disabled and experienced pain and suffering.

In addition, Ricky Eastern, Sr. and Jenecia Eastern claim they incurred medical expenses and lost wages.

They claim Chapman was negligent because she failed to keep a proper lookout, drove into the rear of their vehicle, failed to properly brake, drove too fast and followed the Easterns' vehicle too closely, according to the complaint.

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

The Easterns will be represented by Thomas C. Rich and Jennifer L. Barbieri of Fairview Heights.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 08-L-585.