Granite City accident causes injuries, suit claims

A man has filed suit against the driver who he claims failed to yield the right-of-way before making a left-hand turn, causing a collision.

Douglas S. Totty II filed a lawsuit Dec. 28 in Madison County Circuit Court against Jan P. Burnett.

In his complaint, Totty claims he was driving north on Edwardsville Road at its intersection with Maryville Road in Granite City on June 22 when Burnett, who was driving south on the same road, attempted to make a left-hand turn. In the midst of the turn, Burnett struck Totty’s vehicle, according to the complaint.

Because of the collision, Totty sustained severe and disabling injuries; experienced great pain, suffering and emotional distress; and incurred medical costs, the suit states. He also was unable to carry out his usual duties and lost wages, the complaint says.

Totty blames Burnett for causing the collision, saying she negligently failed to keep a proper lookout, drove too fast, failed to decrease her speed to avoid a collision, failed to drive within a single lane and failed to yield the right-of-way.

In his complaint, Totty is seeking a judgment of more than $50,000, plus costs.

Gregory D. Abel, Charles A. Lukis, Julie A. Blanks and Craig D. Queen of Hausmann-McNally of Decatur will be representing him.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 12-L-2092.