Passenger sues over Maryville accident

A Franklin County man claims he suffered severe and permanent injuries after a driver struck the parked vehicle in which he was sitting.

Charles Hofmann filed a lawsuit June 20 in Madison County Circuit Court against David Bjorkstrand.

In his complaint, Hofmann claims he was sitting as a passenger in a parked 1999 Chevrolet 4x4 conventional cab truck on East Main Street in Maryville on June 21, 2009, when Bjorkstrand, who was driving a 2008 Dodge Ram, collided with the Chevrolet.

Because of the collision, in addition to his severe and permanent injuries, Hofmann became sick, sore and lame and suffered intense pain and anguish, according to the complaint. In addition, he has been unable to work for extended periods of time and incurred medical costs, the suit states.

Hofmann blames Bjorkstrand for causing his injuries, saying he negligently drove too fast, failed to keep control of his vehicle, failed to reduce his speed and failed to stop at a traffic control device.

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

Bryan A. Drew, Jason D. Drew, Daniel K. Cockrum and Natosha Myers of Drew and Drew in Benton will be representing him.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 11-L-585.