Driver failed to reduce speed, suit claims

A Madison County woman claims she incurred medical costs after a driver failed to reduce his speed, causing a collision.

Betsy B. Smith filed a lawsuit April 3 in Madison County Circuit Court against Jeffrey W. Tague and Richard A. Madison.

In her complaint, Smith claims she drove near the intersection of Martin Luther King Drive and Godfrey Road in Madison on May 3, 2011, at about 7:10 p.m. when Tague, who drove northwest near the same intersection, collided with her vehicle.

Because of the collision, Smith incurred medical costs, lost her income, lost her normal life and experienced pain and suffering, according to the complaint.

Smith blames Tague for causing the collision, saying he negligently failed to keep a proper lookout and failed to reduce his speed to avoid a collision.

Smith also names Madison as a defendant, saying he negligently lent his vehicle to Tague.

Smith is seeking a judgment of more than $100,000, plus costs and other relief the court deems just.

David W. Dugan of East Alton will be representing her.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 13-L-543.