Suit says driver ran stop sign

A Jefferson County resident claims he sustained severe and permanent injuries after a driver failed to yield the right-of-way at a stop sign.

Larry Beal filed a lawsuit Jan. 24 in Jefferson County District Court against Ida Cochran Smith.

Beal claims he drove his 2000 Honda Accord on Dec. 14 when Smith, who drove a 2009 Chevrolet Impala, struck him after failing to yield at a stop sign.

Because of the accident, Beal experienced physical pain, suffering and mental anguish; lost his earnings; incurred medical costs; and suffered physical impairment and disfigurement, according to the complaint.

Beal blames Smith for causing the collision, saying she negligently failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to maintain control of her vehicle, drove too fast, failed to timely apply her brakes, failed to exercise ordinary care and failed to turn to avoid a collision.

In addition, Smith failed to keep a proper distance from Beal's vehicle, the suit states.

In his complaint, Beal seeks an unspecified judgment, plus pre- and post-judgment interest at the legal rate, attorney's fees and other relief the court deems just.

Dan Ducote Jr. of Moore Landrey in Beaumont will be representing him.

Judge Gary Sanderson, 60th District Court, has been assigned to the case.

Case No. B189-243