Motorcyclist sues driver over I-57 accident

A Madison County man has filed suit against the driver who he claims unexpectedly merged into his lane, causing him to fall from his motorcycle and to sustain serious injuries.

Albert Hamilton claims he was driving north on Bluff in the left lane near Interstate 57 and Red Bud Drive on Feb. 11 when defendant Karen S. Orr, who was driving in the same direction in the lane next to Hamilton, attempted to move into the left lane where Hamilton was driving. In turn, Hamilton lost control of his motorcycle, fell to the pavement and suffered bodily injuries, according to the complaint filed March 27 in Madison County Circuit Court.Madison Record

Because of the collision, Hamilton suffered and sustained injuries, endured pain and suffering, experienced disability and lost her opportunity to participate in her normal life activities, the suit states. In addition, he incurred medical costs, lost wages and suffered property damages, the complaint says.

Hamilton blames Orr for causing the collision, saying she negligently drove too fast, allowed her vehicle to enter Hamilton’s lane, allowed her vehicle to cut off Hamilton’s motorcycle, failed to warn of her impending approach, attempted to change lanes at an improper time, failed to ensure that her vehicle was free of defective conditions, failed to keep a proper lookout and failed to activate a turn signal, among other negligent acts.

Hamilton is seeking a judgment in excess of the jurisdictional limits of Madison County Circuit Court, plus costs.

Cannon D. Lambert of Karchmar and Lambert in Chicago will be representing him.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 13-L-502.