Shadow driver crossed into Montana driver's lane, suit claims

A Madison County woman has filed suit against the driver who she says entered her lane and struck her.

Dawn R. Dykes filed a lawsuit Sept. 4 in Madison County Circuit Court against James E. Butler.

Dykes claims she was driving a 2004 Pontiac Montana minivan north on Marine Road near Lake Road in Madison County on Sept. 11, 2007, at about 3:17 p.m. when Butler, who was driving his 1991 Dodge Shadow south on Marine Road, struck Dykes's van.

Because of the collision, Dykes sustained injuries to her left shoulder, left elbow, left forearm, left wrist, head, neck, shoulders and back and incurred medical costs, according to the complaint. Dykes also experienced pain and suffering, lost wages and sustained economic loss, the suit states.

Dykes blames Butler for failing to drive at a safe speed, for speeding in excess of the posted speed limit, for driving in a reckless manner, for improper lane usage, for failing to keep proper control of his vehicle, for failing to properly use his brakes and for failing to warn Dykes he was driving negligently.

Dykes is seeking a judgment of more than $50,000.

Scott B. Meyer of Belleville will be representing her.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-934.