Dugas takes lead in $1M auto collision suit

Beaumont attorney Clay Dugas has taken the lead in a suit brought by a Louisiana woman, who seeks more than $1 million in damages for injuries suffered in an automobile collision at the intersection of Avenue H and Fifth Street in Silsbee.

Through former Clay Dugas & Associates attorney Cody Rees, Carolyn Bynum filed suit against Earl Davenport, All Star Plumbing and Elisabeth Richard On Oct. 6 in Jefferson County District Court.

Court records show that a designation of lead counsel was filed in the case on March 10, stating Rees is no longer with the firm and Dugas is now the lead counsel.

According to the complaint, Bynum was a passenger in a vehicle driven by Richard on Avenue H in Silsbee on May 14, 2014, when Richard turned left onto Fifth Street and Davenport, while driving in the scope of his employment with All Star Plumbing, ran a red light and slammed directly into the portion of Richard’s vehicle where Bynum was seated.

Bynum suffered injuries to her neck, shoulder and body in general. Davenport is accused of gross negligence in running a red light and inattention, while Richard is accused of negligence for making no attempt to avoid the collision.

All Star Plumbing is sued pursuant to respondeat superior and accused of negligent entrustment, hiring, and supervision.

Bynum seeks more than $1 million in damages, including medical bills, loss of earning capacity, interest, exemplary damages and costs of court.

Case No. B196-192