Rear-end accident in Granite City leads to suit

A woman claims she suffered disability and disfigurement after a driver rear-ended her vehicle.

Margaret A. Pruitt filed a lawsuit Nov. 21 in Madison County Circuit Court against Larry Hopkins.

In her complaint, Pruitt alleges she drove west on Edwardsville Road and was attempting to make a left turn onto 13th Street in Granite City on Oct. 19, 2010, when Hopkins, who traveled in the same direction, struck the rear of Pruitt's vehicle.

Because of the collision, Pruitt suffered great pain and mental anguish and lost earnings, according to the complaint. In addition, she incurred medical costs of more than $50,000, the suit states.

Pruitt blames Hopkins for causing the collision, saying he failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to properly apply his brakes, failed to reduce his speed and ran into the back of Pruitt's vehicle, the complaint says.

In her complaint, Pruitt is seeking a judgment of more than $50,000, plus costs and other relief the court deems just.

Gregory M. Tobin of Pratt and Tobin in East Alton will be representing her.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 11-L-1251.