Suit filed against Piasa man's estate over ATV injuries

A Wood River mother and son claim a deceased Jersey County man owes them for injuries the boy allegedly suffered while working on the man's property.

Jordan Gallup and his mother, Linda Gallup, filed the lawsuit against the estate of James T. Williamson Oct. 13 in Madison County Circuit Court.

According to the complaint, Gallup was hired by Williamson in June 2007 to do odd jobs around his property on Oak Rest Road in Piasa. Gallup says he was told to use a four-wheel drive John Deere Gator all terrain vehicle. However, Gallup claims he was 16-years-old at the time and unfamiliar with how to operate the ATV.

While completing the chores requested by Williamson, Gallup says the ATV he was riding overturned. He says he suffered serious and permanent injuries in the crash.

Gallup claims he was hospitalized for a long period of time after the crash. He says he suffered great pain and discomfort and was left with disfigurement and scarring.

Gallup and his mother contend Williamson was negligent for allowing the 16-year-old to drive the ATV, despite the teenager's lack of knowledge about the vehicle or the property.

The Gallups are suing the administrator of Williamson's estate for $100,000 to compensate for pain and suffering, medical expenses and court costs.

Attorney Lanny Darr of Alton is representing the mother and son.

Madison County Circuit Court Case No. 10-L-1064