Women claim injuries in I-55 accident

Two women have filed suit against the driver who they claim rear-ended the vehicle in which they were riding, causing them to sustain multiple injuries.

Sonya C. Murdock and Barbara J. Murdock claim Sonya Murdock was driving north on Interstate 55 in East St. Louis on April 1 when defendant Larry Ripley, who was driving a vehicle for defendant Smith LSG in the same direction, rear-ended her vehicle. At the time of the collision, Barbara Murdock was riding as a passenger in the vehicle.

Because of the accident, Sonya and Barbara Murdock received injuries to their necks, shoulders and low backs and incurred medical costs, according to the complaint filed June 27 in St. Clair County Circuit Court. In addition, they suffered disability, experienced pain and suffering and lost wages, the suit states.

Ripley negligently failed to keep a proper lookout, drove in such a way as to strike the rear of Sonya Murdock's, failed to properly apply his brakes, drove too fast and followed Sonya Murdock's vehicle too closely, the complaint says.

In their four-count complaint, Sonya and Barbara Murdock seek a judgment of more than $200,000, plus costs.

They will be represented by Thomas C. Rich and Kristina D. Cooksey of Fairview Heights.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 11-L-332.