Insurer sued for denying under-insured motorist claim

An Orange County woman claims her insurance company refuses to pay her for damages she incurred in an automobile accident with an under-insured driver.

Bonnie Johnson filed a lawsuit Nov. 2 in Jefferson County District Court against State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co.

Johnson claims State Farm refused to pay her for the treatment of severe and permanent bodily injuries she sustained when an under-insured driver struck her vehicle as she drove on the service road of Interstate Highway 10 and College in Beaumont on Jan. 16, 2007.

The incident occurred after the driver failed to control his speed and ran into the rear of Johnson's vehicle, according to the complaint.

Because of the collision, Johnson sustained head, neck, back and body injuries; incurred medical costs; suffered physical pain, mental anguish and physical impairment; and lost earnings, the suit states.

At the time of the crash, Johnson had an insurance policy through State Farm that should have covered loss caused by the owner of an under-insured vehicle, the suit states. However, State Farm has refused to pay Johnson the benefits she says the company owes her.

In her complaint, Johnson seeks unspecified actual and punitive damages, plus pre- and post-judgment interest at the legal rate, attorney's fees, costs and other relief the court deems just.

Jessica L. Hallmark and Rocky Lawdermilk of the Law Office of Rocky Lawdermilk in Beaumont will be representing her.

Judge Bob Wortham, 58th District Court will be representing her.

Jefferson County District Court case number: A188-723