Driver backing from driveway blamed for causing collision

A man backing out of a driveway failed to yield the right-of-way to a driver, causing a collision, according to recently filed court documents.

Patrick W. Harget filed a lawsuit April 11 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Derrick L. Courtland.

Harget claims he drove east on Richard Street near its intersection with Old Paris in Cahokia on Jan. 21 when Courtland, who attempted to back out of a driveway located at 1422 Richard, hit Harget's vehicle.

Because of the collision, Harget suffered injuries to his head, body, face and limbs and experienced bodily pain, according to the complaint. In addition, he incurred medical costs, lost his ability to work and lost wages, the suit states.

Harget blames Courtland for causing the collision, saying Courtland negligently failed to maintain a proper lookout, drove too fast, failed to keep his vehicle under control, failed to yield the right-of-way, failed to drive with adequate brakes, failed to keep his brakes in proper working order and failed to slow down or stop to avoid a collision.

In his complaint, Harget is seeking a judgment of more than $50,000, plus costs.

Carmen S. Durso of Belleville will be representing her.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 11-L-183.