Glisson
A man has filed suit against the police officer who he claims rear-ended him at a red light, causing an aggravation of his post-traumatic stress disorder.
Eric Arzuagas claims he was driving his 1999 Nissan Maxima east on Wesley Drive in Wood River on May 11, 2011, when he stopped in the right lane at a red light, waiting to make a right-hand turn. At the same time, Christopher Johnson, who was a Wood River police officer, was driving a 2008 Crown Victoria behind Arzuagas when he rear-ended the Maxima, according to the complaint filed April 23 in Madison County Circuit Court.
Because of the collision, Arzuagas incurred neck, left shoulder and back injuries; experienced great pain and mental anguish; and suffered disability, the suit states. He also lost his normal life and incurred medical costs, the complaint says.
Arzuagas claims Johnson failed to reduce his speed as he approached a red light, failed to keep his vehicle under proper control, failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to stop to avoid a collision and drove without adequate brakes.
In his complaint, Arzuagas is seeking a judgment of more than $200,000, plus costs.
He will be represented by Michael P. Glisson of Williamson, Webster, Falb and Glisson in Alton.
Madison County Circuit Court case number: 12-L-526.