Suit blames dog owner for failing to warn driver of roaming pet

A woman claims she sustained neck and back injuries after a dog ran in front of her car, causing her to hit it.

Stephanie Askew filed a lawsuit Nov. 9 in Madison County Circuit Court against Darla K. Lancey, who Askew claims allowed her dog to roam free.

Askew claims she drove north along the 600 block of Troy-O'Fallon Road on Nov. 30, 2007, when Lancey's dog ran into the road and struck Askew's vehicle.

"Due to the collision plaintiff was caused to sustain severe injuries," the suit states.

Because of the accident, Askew claims she suffered physical pain and suffering, incurred medical costs and lost money because of her inability to work, the complaint says.

Askew blames Lancey for failing to properly restrain her dog, for allowing her dog to roam freely on the road and for failing to warn of her dog who roamed freely.

In the two-count complaint, Askew seeks a judgment of more than $100,000, plus costs.

Matthew A. Marison of Cook, Ysursa, Bartholomew, Brauer and Shevlin in Belleville will be representing her.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-1201.