Suit claims crash led to death a year after accident

A lawsuit has been filed against a driver accused of causing a 2009 car crash in Belleville that allegedly led to a man's death a year later.

LaTony Abernathy, as special administrator of the estate of Tommy Cartwright, filed the complaint Dec. 6 in St. Clair Circuit Court against Kay A. Hudzik.

The alleged crash happened on the afternoon of Dec. 8, 2009 on West Main Street in Belleville. Abernathy says Cartwright was driving west on Main Street near the intersection of South 62nd Street when Hudzik, who was driving in the same direction, allegedly crashed into him.

Abernathy says the crash caused extensive injuries to Cartwright, including a serious neck injury that required surgical treatment. According to the complaint, Cartwright's neck injury "ultimately caused his death" in August 2010.

Cartwright and his family allegedly paid out large amounts of money for a year of medical treatments and, later, his funeral. Abernathy says the family also experienced pain and suffering as a result of Cartwright's death.

Abernathy accuses Hudzick of negligence for allegedly failing to control her vehicle and failing to take the necessary steps to avoid a collision with Cartwright. She demands a judgment against the driver for more than $50,000 along with court costs.

Attorney Rodney D. Caffey of Wood River is representing Abernathy.

St. Clair County Circuit Court Case No. 11-L-0664