EDWARDSVILLE - An Alton bar is being sued over allegations its employees served alcohol to a woman who was later involved in a crash.
Michelle Jackson filed the complaint in Madison County Circuit Court against Firehouse Bar and Firehouse employee Gerald Snyders under the Dram Shop Act and driver Christina Seward, whom the plaintiff accuses of negligence.
According to the complaint, Jackson was a passenger in a vehicle in the parking lot of the Jack in the Box in Alton on March 9. She claims she was exiting from the vehicle when she was struck in a "violent collision" that knocked her to the ground. Seward, who was driving, was allegedly issued a citation for driving under the influence by police at the scene.
Jackson alleges it was Seward's duty to exercise care while operating a vehicle.
She claims Seward negligently and carelessly drove while intoxicated, failed to stop or slow down, and failed to reduce speed.
She alleges staff at the Firehouse Bar sold, served or gave alcohol to Seward some time before the parking lot incident.
According to the complaint, Jackson suffered injuries to various parts of her body, some of which may be permanent. She claims she sustained great pain and mental anguish and incurred medical expenses.
Under the Dram Shop Act, establishments can, under certain circumstances, be sued for serving alcohol to an individual later involved in a collision.
Jackson seeks a judgment of more than $50,000 in damages, plus costs.
The plaintiff is represented by attorneys Michael Glisson and Taylor Fehrenz of Williamson. Webster, Falb & Glisson in Alton.
Madison County Circuit Court case number 19-L-1143