Belleville rear-end accident is subject of suit

Three people have filed a lawsuit against the driver of the vehicle who they say rear-ended them, allegedly causing them severe injuries.

Karen Johnson filed a lawsuit individually and on behalf of her minor children, Alysia and Joseph Johnson, on Sept. 17 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Paul C. Mueller.

Karen Johnson claims she was driving on West Boulevard near its intersection with Carlyle Avenue in Belleville on Oct. 11, 2008, when Mueller, who was also driving on West Boulevard, struck the rear of her vehicle. Alysia and Joseph Johnson were riding in the vehicle at the time of the accident, according to the complaint.

Because of the accident, Karen Johnson and her children were made sick, sore, lame, disordered and disabled and incurred medical costs, according to the complaint. In addition, Karen Johnson suffered disability, experienced pain and suffering and lost money from a loss of wages, the suit states.

Karen Johnson also received injuries to her head, neck and back while Alysia and Joseph Johnson to their necks and backs, the complaint says.

The plaintiffs blame Mueller for failing to keep a proper lookout, for driving his vehicle into the rear of their vehicle, for failing to properly apply his brakes, for driving too fast and for failing to yield the right-of-way.

In the six-count suit, the plaintiffs are seeking more than $300,000, plus costs.

Thomas C. Rich and Jennifer L. Barbieri of Fairview Heights will be representing them.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-493.