Passenger who lost four fingers by riding with allegedly drunk driver, sues Moose Lodge, others

A man claims he lost four of the fingers on his dominant hand after he rode as a passenger in a vehicle driven by an alleged intoxicated driver.

Michael Kovaly filed a lawsuit May 5 in Madison County Circuit Court against The Wood River Moose Lodge doing business as The Moose Lodge, Runway Lounge and Package Liquor and Donzo's Lounge.

Kovaly claims he rode in a vehicle with driver Michael Mrazek after Mrazek had consumed alcoholic beverages at The Moose Lodge, Runaway Lounge and Donzo's Lounge.

"On said date, as a result of the intoxication, Michael Mrazek caused an automobile accident, in which Plaintiff, Michael Kovaly, was a passenger," the suit states.

In addition to losing his fingers, Kovaly incurred pain and suffering because of the collision, incurred medical costs and became disabled, according to the complaint. In addition, he has been unable to pursue his normal activities and lost wages, he claims.

In his three-count complaint, Kovaly seeks a judgment of more than $150,000.

Michael P. Glisson of Williamson, Webster, Falb and Glisson in Alton will be representing him.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 10-L-489.