Damages trial opens in Granite City car accident suit

A damages trial in a man's April 2006 car accident case began Monday in Madison County.

A jury was selected and opening statements commenced prior to 1:30 p.m.

Testimony in the case began shortly after and continued Monday afternoon.

Plaintiff Rudolph Muzzarelli is suing Matthew Evans for injuries he allegedly suffered when Evans' car hit his in 2006.

Muzzarelli claims he suffered back and neck injuries.

His suit seeks damages of at least $50,000.

Evans died during the course of the litigation in a different traffic accident.

A finding of liability against Evans had previously been entered by the court.

In his opening statement, defense counsel Thomas Zimmer acknowledged his client caused the injuries and accident but asked jurors to use their own experiences and to listen to the testimony of defense experts including a doctor specializing in head and back injuries.

Madison County Chief Judge Ann Callis presides.

Callis took over the suit from Madison County Circuit Judge Daniel Stack last year after Stack announced he would retire later this year.

The case is one of more than 100 that Callis transferred from Stack's docket.

Muzzarelli is represented by Rich Verticchio.

Evans is represented by Zimmer.

The case is Madison case number 08-L-151.