EDWARDSVILLE – A driver is suing over injuries he allegedly suffered when the tire of a tractor-trailer became loose and hit his vehicle. He is citing negligence.
Juan C. Stepney filed the suit Jan. 4 in Madison County Circuit Court against William D. Bergschneider, also known as Doug Bergschneider, individually and doing business as Doug Bergschneider Trucking, and Ralph F. Steward.
On Jan. 14, 2014, the plaintiff was driving his vehicle northbound on U.S. Interstate 255 in Collinsville, and defendant Bergschneider owned, operated, controlled and maintained a tractor-trailer truck which defendant Steward was driving southbound on the same route and at the same location, the suit says.
A tire flew off the tractor-trailer, according to the complaint, colliding with the plaintiff's vehicle and causing him injuries for which he will be paying medical bills. He also has lost wages and a normal life, he says.
The defendants are responsible for allegedly failing to exercise reasonable care for the safety of the plaintiff by committing these negligent acts: failing to inspect the truck tires, failing to maintain the truck tires and failing to immediately stop upon feeling a vibration in the truck.
The plaintiff seeks judgment against both defendants in an amount in excess of $50,000 plus court costs. He is represented by B. Jay Dowling of Sterling and Dowling PC in Belleville.
Madison County Circuit Court case number 16-L-1