Route 140 rear-end accident leads to Madison County suit

A woman has filed suit against the driver who she claims rear-ended her vehicle, causing her to suffer disability and disfigurement.

Karen S. Thompson filed a lawsuit July 22 in Madison County Circuit Court against Chad E. Conlee.

In her complaint, Thompson claims she was driving on Illinois Route 140 in Bethalto on March 18 when Conlee, who was driving in the same direction, struck the back of her vehicle.

Because of the collision, Thompson suffered great pain and mental anguish, lost earnings, incurred medical costs and suffered a diminished earning capacity, according to the complaint.

She blames Conlee for causing the collision, saying he negligently failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to properly apply his brakes, failed to reduce his speed to avoid a collision and drove while distracted.

In her complaint, Thompson is seeking a judgment of more than $50,000, plus costs and other relief the court deems just.

Gregory M. Tobin of Pratt and Tobin in East Alton will be representing her.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 13-L-1212.