Pedestrian claims driver backed into him in Belleville parking lot

A pedestrian claims he sustained severe and permanent injuries after a driver backed into him as he walked through a parking lot.

Daniel W. Siebecker filed a lawsuit in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Eric Smelser.

Siebecker claims he attempted to walk through a parking lot located at 133 West Main Street in Belleville on July 5, 2008, when Smelser backed his car into Siebecker, knocking him to the ground.

In addition to his injuries, Siebecker incurred medical costs, suffered severe and continuing pain and lost wages, according to the complaint.

Siebecker blames Smelser for hitting him, saying he failed to keep his vehicle under proper control, failed to keep a proper lookout, drove too fast, failed to properly apply his brakes and knowingly left the scene of the accident, the suit states.

Siebecker seeks a judgment of more than $50,000, plus other relief the court deems just.

Joseph M. Taylor of Taylor and Taylor in St. Louis will be representing him.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 10-L-201.