EDWARDSVILLE - A motorist is being sued for allegedly causing a rear-end collision on an I-55 exit ramp.
Margaret Beckwith, as next-of-kin of Ruby Beckwith, a minor, filed a lawsuit on Jan. 1 in the Madison County Circuit Court against Patrick Lyerla.
According to the lawsuit, Margaret Beckwith and her daughter, Ruby, were in a vehicle being driven by Barbara Kempernolte on Jan. 30, 2020. They were traveling eastbound on exit ramp 33 on I-55 near the intersection of Illinois Route 4 when Lyerla allegedly rear ended the vehicle the Beckwiths were traveling in.
The plaintiffs allege Lyerla negligently drove while distracted, failed to keep a proper look out, drove at an excessive speed, failed to warn of an impending collision, drove too closely behind another vehicle, failed to reduce speed and failed to swerve or maneuver the vehicle to avoid a collision.
The Beckwiths claim they were caused to suffer physical injuries including to their neck, back and wrist. They also claim they endured pain and suffering, loss of a normal life, mental anguish and medical expenses.
The plaintiffs seek an amount in excess of $50,000, plus cost of suit. They are represented by Michael P. Glisson of Williamson Webster Falb & Glisson in Alton.
Madison County Circuit Court case number 22-LA-000010