Motorcycle rider claims he was hit by drunk driver

After being hit by a car, a motorcycle rider is suing not only the driver who was allegedly drunk but also the owner of the vehicle.

John Lazenby filed suit against Steven Smith, the man who hit him, and James Smith, who owns the vehicle, on May 3 in Orange County District Court.

Court papers show that on May 7, 2008, Lazenby was traveling on his motorcycle on FM 105 when "the highly intoxicated Steven Smith ... failed to yield the right of way at a private drive and slammed into the plaintiff."

In his suit, he accuses Steven Smith of failing to keep a proper lookout and also accuses James Smith of negligently entrusting his vehicle to Steven.

Lazenby is suing for past and future mental anguish, medical expenses and lost wages, plus all court costs.

The plaintiff is represented by attorney Jonathan Juhan.

The case has been assigned to Judge Dennis Powell, 163rd Judicial District.

Case No. B-100209-c