Ruth to hear motions Thursday in Granite City falling accident

Madison County Circuit Judge Dennis Ruth will hear motions in a personal injury suit of a man who claims he was injured when he fell at a Granite City steel company's facility.

So far, no attorney has filed an appearance on behalf of defendant United States Steel Corporation.

The plaintiff is seeking unspecified damages and costs in a complaint filed last month.

Plaintiff Roger Spears is suing the company for negligence and for failing to maintain a concrete floor. Spears claims that while acting as a licensee at the facility, he fell into a hole in the floor, injuring his ankle and foot.

He is suing the company for his injuries, past and future pain and suffering, disability, medical bills, diminished earning capacity and lost wages.

He is represented by Dawna Hale of Wood River.

The hearing is scheduled for Sept. 3 at 3:30 p.m.

Ruth will hear a motion filed by the plaintiff for emergency inspection, photographs and other relief.

The case is Madison case number 09-L-885.