Rear-end accident in Granite City causes injuries

Two women are suing a driver they say caused a rear-end crash in Granite City.

Courtney Rhoades and Christine Walker filed the complaint against Brandon D. Becherer on Dec. 9 in Madison County Circuit Court. Becherer was the driver of a vehicle that allegedly rear-ended a car driven by Rhoades on Sept. 10.

The alleged crash happened on Wabash Avenue near the intersection of Manley Avenue. Rhoades says Becherer drove up behind her vehicle and crashed into it. Walker was a passenger in Rhoades vehicle, according to the complaint. Both women say they injured their neck, shoulders and back in the crash.

Also named as a defendant in the suit is Karen L. Becherer, the owner of the vehicle Brandon was driving at the time of the crash. Rhoades and Walker contend that she is negligent for allowing Brandon to drive. They argue Karen should have known that Brandon was incompetent, inexperienced or reckless and posed a risk to others on the road.

Rhoades and Walker are asking Brandon and Karen Becherer to each pay both of them a minimum of $50,000 to compensate for medical expenses, pain and suffering and disability.

Attorneys Thomas C. Rich and Kristina D. Cooksey are representing Rhoades and Walker.

Madison County Circuit Court case no. 10-L-1227