Accident victim files suit against two drivers

A Jefferson County woman is suing a North Carolina trucking company and individuals for alleged negligence in a February motor vehicle accident.

Kayla Johnson (Broussard) filed against Carolina Southern Trucking Inc. of Hamlet, N.C, James Paul Waddy of Randleman, N.C, and Beatriz Flores of Spring, Texas, in Jefferson County District Court on March 26, claiming damages resulting from a February collision.

According to the suit, the plaintiff was driving eastbound on Interstate 10 in Beaumont on or about Feb. 27. When she slowed for traffic, defendant Waddy struck her vehicle from behind while driving in the scope of his employment with Carolina Southern Trucking, the complaint states.

Johnson alleges negligence through the driver’s wrongful acts, omissions and/or carelessness in the incident. The suit also contends that Waddy is an unsafe driver, and therefore that his employer committed gross negligence by allowing him to operate their vehicle in failing to properly train and supervise him.

Flores is cited with contributing to the cause of the accident. The complaint states that prior to the plaintiff’s car being struck, Flores had failed to control her speed and struck another vehicle, hence blocking a portion of the highway and creating a traffic hazard to oncoming motorists.

Citing pain, suffering, anguish and disability, the plaintiff seeks compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and earning capacity, pre- and post-judgment interest, exemplary damages, attorney’s fees, expenses and costs. She is represented by Clay Dugas of Clay Dugas & Associates in Beaumont.

Jefferson County District Court Case A-196882