Smithton accident results in injury suit

A woman claims she suffered head and body injuries after a driver rear-ended her vehicle.

Judith A. Russell filed a lawsuit Nov. 29 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Elaine J. Tanner.

In her complaint, Russell alleges she drove west on Douglas Street at its intersection with Route 159 in Smithton on Oct. 24, 2011, at about 8:26 p.m. when Tanner, who was driving behind her, struck the back of her vehicle.

Because of the collision, Russell became sick, sore, lame, disordered and disabled; suffered injuries to her neck and back; and incurred medical costs, according to the complaint. She also suffered disability, experienced pain and suffering and lost wages, the suit states.

Russell blames Tanner for causing the collision, saying she negligently failed to keep a proper lookout, struck the back of Russell’s vehicle, failed to properly apply her brakes, drove too fast, followed Russell’s vehicle too closely and drove without adequate brakes, the complaint says.

Russell is seeking a judgment of more than $50,000, plus costs.

John H. Hustava of Collinsville will be representing her.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 12-L-639.