Man sues couple he was visiting for tripping in their garage

A Madison County man has filed suit against a Madison County couple, alleging he was injured after he fell in their garage.

Stephen Szychowski claims he was visiting James and Eileen Smith on Aug. 3, 2007, at their home on 2023 Marine Road in Highland.

He was placing a beverage in a refrigerator in the Smiths' garage when he fell into an oil or service pit that was partially concealed by a vehicle, according to the complaint filed March 6 in Madison County Circuit Court.

Because of his fall, Szychowski sustained injuries to his right leg, knee and ankle and incurred pain, medical expenses and a loss of wages, the suit states.

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

He is represented by James E. Gorman of Lucco, Brown, Threlkeld and Dawson in Edwardsville.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-0228.