Route 15 accident caused injuries, suit claims

An Illinois woman says her head, neck and back were severely injured after a Florida woman ran a red light and violently collided with her vehicle.

Aisha Wright filed a lawsuit May 22 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Reithoffer Shows and Tina Hales.

Wright says she was driving her 1997 Ford Expedition west on Illinois Route 15 near its intersection with Race Horse Drive and Lakewood Place in Alorton on July 21, 2008 at about 4:30 p.m. when the collision occurred.

As Wright reached the intersection, the green light was in her favor, the complaint says.

However, Hales, who was driving a truck for Reithoffer Shows, attempted to make a left turn onto Race Horse Drive, violating the red light and violently colliding with Wright, according to the suit.

In addition to her injuries, Wright says she will suffer disability, loss of a normal life, pain and suffering, lost wages and incurred medical expenses.

She also claims various parts of her vehicle were destroyed and rendered worthless and the automobile became greatly depreciated.

Hales was negligent by failing to stop the truck when she entered the intersection, by failing to make a proper left turn, by failing to yield the right-of-way, by failing to pay attention and by failing to keep a proper lookout, according to the complaint.

In the two-count suit, Wright is seeking a judgment in excess of $100,000, plus costs.

Del A. Goldenhersh of Knapp, Ohl, Green and Marron in Edwardsville will be representing her.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-268.