Driver claims he was pushed into guard rail on I-55/70

A Belleville man has filed suit against the driver who he claims rear-ended his vehicle while he slowed to stop for construction vehicles.

Victor F. Francoeur claims he was driving in a construction zone on Interstate 55 and Interstate 70 near mile post 11 when he slowed to stop for a construction vehicle on April 9, 2010. Suddenly, defendant Patrick Michael Schaffer rear-ended Victor Francoeur, pushing him into a guard rail, according to the complaint filed April 5 in St. Clair County Circuit Court.

Because of the accident, Victor F. Francoeur sustained severe injuries to his back, neck, shoulder, legs and nerves and incurred medical costs, the suit states. In addition, he lost his earning capacity, suffered disability and lost his enjoyment of life, the complaint says.

In addition, Victor Francoeur's wife, Katherine Francoeur, lost her husband's support, care, comfort and companionship because of the accident, according to the complaint.

Victor Francoeur blames Schaffer for causing the collision, saying he negligently failed to reduce his speed to avoid a collision and drove too fast.

In his two-count complaint, Victor Francoeur is seeking a judgment of more than $50,000.

Michael L. McGlynn of Belleville will be representing him.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 12-L-170.