Estate of 91-year-old sued over Godfrey crash

A woman is suing the estate of a man who she claims pulled out in front of her and caused a crash in Godfrey.

Susan M. Merriman filed a lawsuit May 13 in Madison County Circuit Court against the estate of Christian F. Veltjes. John W. Hoefert Jr. is named as executor.

Merriman says she was driving a GMC Envoy north on Godfrey Road in August 2012. As she entered the 5300 block of Godfrey Road, Merriman says Veltjes pulled out of the Moto Mart parking lot into the northbound lane. Merriman contends Veltjes drove directly in front of her making it impossible to avoid crashing into his car. The 91-year-old Veltjes died injuries he received in the crash, according to the complaint.

Merriman accuses Veltjes of failing to yield to oncoming traffic and is suing his estate for negligence. She asks for more than $50,000 in damages for medical bills, lost wages and court fees.

Attorney Bruce A. Beeman of Springfield represents Merriman. They request a jury trial.

Madison County Circuit Court Case No. 13-L744