Woman claims injuries in Caseyville accident

A woman has filed suit against a Belleville resident, alleging her right shoulder, right leg and low back were injured after a rear-end collision.

Julie Hentz claims she was stopped at a traffic light at the bottom of the ramp from Illinois 157 southbound to St. Clair Avenue in Caseyville in her 2003 Ford Escape 4x4 on March 4, 2008, at about 7 a.m.

While waiting at the light, Hentz was hit from behind by Deidre Foote, who was driving a 2001 Mazda Tribute LX 4x4, according to the complaint filed May 19 in St. Clair County Circuit Court.

In addition to her injuries, Hentz suffered disability, loss of a normal life, pain and suffering and incurred medical expenses, the suit states. She also claims she lost wages and incurred expenses in attempting to fix her car.

"Various parts of plaintiff's automobile were destroyed and rendered worthless and the automobile became greatly depreciated and reduced in value," the suit states.

Foote failed to be attentive, failed to keep a proper lookout, drove too fast for road conditions and failed to reduce her speed to avoid a collision, according to the complaint.

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

She will be represented by Del A. Goldenhersh of Knapp, Ohl, Green and Marron in Edwardsville.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-258.