EDWARDSVILLE — A motorist is suing the Alton Fire Department alleging a department vehicle entered the intersection while responding to an emergency call and struck the plaintiff's vehicle.
Brendan Neal filed a complaint July 30 in the Madison County Circuit Court against Charles Willinghoff, Alton Fire Department and the City of Alton, alleging negligence.
Neal alleges in his complaint that on Aug. 24, 2020, Willinghoff was driving an emergency vehicle for the City of Alton and responding to an emergency call when he allegedly caused a "violent collision" by striking his car.
Neal claims that as a result of the collision, he suffered injuries to his knee, hip and shoulder, suffered anxiety and mental anguish and incurred medical treatment costs.
He alleges Willinghoff failed to keep a proper lookout for vehicles in his path, failed to reduce his speed, entered the intersection without right of way and was distracted by his cell phone "or other electronic device" while driving.
Neal seeks compensation of more than $50,00, trial by jury and all other just relief. He is represented by Joshua Evans of Greater River Injury Law in Jerseyville.
Madison County Circuit Court case number 21-L-000909