Centralia woman sues over auto accident

A Centralia woman is seeking more than $50,000 due to injuries she claims she incurred during an accident.

Lisa E. Hughes was stopped in traffic on Highway 161 near its intersection with North Clinton in St. Clair County when she was hit from behind by John A. Wooldridge, according to the complaint filed Feb. 17 in St. Clair County Circuit Court.

The accident, which happened on Oct. 12, 2007, caused Hughes' vehicle to be thrust into the vehicle in front of her, the suit states.

As a result of the accident, Hughes claims she was thrown within the confines of her car and received injuries to her legs, neck, back, internal and external organs.

She also suffered great pain and mental anguish and incurred medical costs, according to the complaint.

Woolridge was negligent by failing to keep a proper lookout, by failing to keep the vehicle under proper control and following Hughes' vehicle at a distance that was not reasonable, the suit states.

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

Dominic Kujawa in Belleville will be representing her.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-0083.