McDonald's and truck driver sued over Alton rear-end accident

A Madison County woman is suing the driver of a McDonald's truck that she says rear-ended her while driving in Alton.

Sara Helwig filed a lawsuit Dec. 19 in Madison County Circuit Court against Michele Zarges and McDonald's USA LLC.

Helwig says she was driving on Landmarks Boulevard in April. As she neared the intersection with Clark Bridge, Helwig claims she was hit from behind by a McDonald's truck being driven by Zarges. Helwig alleges Zarges was driving too closely and too fast to be able to stop in time to avoid crashing into her.

Helwig claims says the impact of the crashed caused multiple injuries including serious damage to her head, neck and back.

Helwig accuses Zarges and her employer of negligence and asks for more than $100,000 in damages for medical expenses, loss of income and court costs.

She is represented by attorneys Thomas C. Rich and Kristina D. Cooksey of Fairview Heights.

Madison County Circuit Court Case No. 11-L-1390