A wrongful death action involving a fatal 2014 auto accident in Mascoutah was settled for $2 million.
The parties filed a petition to approve the settlement on Aug. 11.
The defendants’ liability insurer offered to pay $1.2 million to decedent Robin Wells’ surviving next of kin in settlement of the wrongful death claim and $400,000 to the estate of Robin Wells in settlement of the survival action claim.
Further, the defendants’ liability insurer offered to pay $350,000 to settle the bodily injury claim of Melody Wells, Robin Wells’ minor daughter.
Plaintiff Paul Wells is represented by David Cates of Cates Mahoney in Swansea.
The defendants are represented by Tori Walls of Reed Armstrong Mudge & Morrissey in Edwardsville.
Attorney’s fees in the case totaled $642,833.14, and medical liens totaled $37,622.35.
The remaining $1,319,555.51 is to be distributed to Wells’ surviving husband and minor daughter.
Wells’ remaining adult children did not receive any part of the settlement after waiving their right to recover for the death of their mother.
Circuit Judge Andrew Gleeson approved the settlement and distribution of funds. He dismissed all claims against the defendants on Aug. 11.
Paul Wells, as estate administrator for Robin Wells and guardian of Melody Wells, filed the suit on June 22, 2015, against Don Mueller and Don Mueller Construction Company.
According to the complaint, Robin and Melody Wells were traveling northbound on Illinois State Route 4 in Mascoutah on Nov. 5, 2014, when Mueller, in his capacity as owner of Don Mueller Construction Co., was driving southbound on the same highway.
Mueller’s vehicle allegedly crossed the center line and struck the decedent and her daughter.
Paul Wells alleges Mueller was negligent by failing to drive on the correct side of the road and in the correct land, failing to concentrate on his driving, failing to keep a proper lookout for other vehicles and failing to reduce his speed.
The decedent allegedly suffered injuries to her head, neck and torso. She later died as a result of her injuries.
Melody, who has Downs Syndrome, relied on her mother for care. She also sustained bodily injuries and disfigurement, the suit states.
St. Clair County Circuit Court case number 15-L-364