Grieving mother sues driver in fatal collision

BEAUMONT – A Louisiana mother is suing a Jefferson County woman, claiming wrongful death in a 2015 accident.

Earline Blakes, individually and as surviving parent of Thomas M. Walker III, filed a lawsuit on April 10 against Mahelia Vallian Hill of Beaumont in Jefferson County District Court, claiming liability in the March 2015 death of her son.

According to the filing, Thomas M. Walker III was driving his motorcycle north on Magnolia Avenue at the intersection of Delaware Street in Beaumont on March 29, 2015, when a vehicle driven by the defendant failed to brake at a stop sign, striking the motorcycle.

Alleging that Hill had a duty to exercise ordinary care and operate her vehicle safely, the plaintiff cites the defendant with failure to keep a proper lookout, steer to avoid collision, apply her brakes properly, stop at the traffic sign and yield the right of way.

Blakes maintains that her son suffered physical pain and mental anguish during the time until his death; and that she suffers mental anguish and loss of parental consortium including care, comfort, companionship, services and love. The plaintiff seeks: unspecified compensation for funeral and burial expenses; damages; pre- and post-judgment interest; attorney’s fees; expenses; and costs. She is represented by attorney Thomas Moses of Beaumont.

Jefferson County District Court case no. A-196985.