Ford F-150 accelerated into tree against driver's will, suit claims

A driver blames Ford Motor Company for manufacturing a vehicle that the driver says accelerated into a tree against his will.

Brian D. Williams filed a lawsuit Nov. 1 in Madison County Circuit Court against Ford Motor Company.

In his complaint, Williams alleges he drove a 2004 Ford F-150 pickup truck on Lake Road in Jersey County on Feb. 4, 2005, when he attempted to make a turn.

Suddenly, "the vehicle accelerated without Plaintiff's foot being on the accelerator causing him to hit a tree," the suit states.

The incident occurred because the accelerator remained in the wrong position, the suit claims.

Because of the incident, Williams became sick, sore, lame and disordered and lost his earning capacity, according to the complaint. In addition, he experienced pain and suffering, sustained disability and disfigurement and lost wages, the suit states.

Williams blames Ford for causing his injuries, saying the company negligently manufactured an unreasonably dangerous vehicle with a defective shift gear.

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

Lon D. Weaver of Weaver Law Office in Bethalto will be representing him.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 11-L-1131.