Bethalto auto accident is subject of suit

Denis Ridgeway has filed suit against Ed Barnes, alleging he received neck, shoulder and low back injuries after Barnes rear-ended him.

Ridgeway was driving east on Illinois Route 140 near its intersection with Spencer Street in Bethalto on Nov. 13, 2007, when Barnes struck the rear of his vehicle, according to the complaint filed Feb. 2 in Madison County Circuit Court.

In addition to his injuries, Ridgeway was made sick, sore, lame, disordered and disabled, incurred medical costs and suffered disability, the suit states.

He claims he has also experienced pain and suffering and lost money from lost wages.

Barnes was negligent by failing to keep a proper lookout for other vehicles, by driving in such a manner that he struck the rear of Ridgeway's vehicle, by failing to properly apply the brakes of his vehicle, by driving too fast and by following Ridgeway more closely than was reasonable, according to the complaint.

Ridgeway is seeking a judgment in excess of $50,000, plus costs.

He is represented by Thomas C. Rich and Jennifer L. Barbieri of Fairview Heights.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-0081.