An Orange County man has filed suit against the driver who he claims rear-ended his vehicle because he was texting.
George Richard Leach claims he was driving west on College Street approaching its intersection with Major Drive on Oct. 15 when the incident occurred.
"Plaintiff slowed to stop for the light at the intersection, and defendant caused his vehicle to collide with the back of the trailer being pulled by the plaintiff," the suit filed Feb. 2 in Jefferson County District Court states.
Leach blames defendant Steven Mark Maxwell for causing the collision, saying he negligently followed Leach too closely, drove while texting, drove while sleep impaired, failed to control his speed, drove too fast and drove inattentively.
Because of the collision, Leach suffered injuries to his neck, knee and back and incurred medical costs, according to the complaint. In addition, he experienced mental anguish, physical pain, suffering, disability and physical impairment and lost wages and his earning capacity, the complaint says.
In his complaint, Leach is seeking a judgment in excess of the minimum jurisdictional limits of Jefferson County District Court, plus costs, pre- and post-judgment interest and other relief the court deems just.
Clay Dugas and Mike JacobEllis of Beaumont will be representing him.
The case has been assigned to Judge Bob Wortham, 58th District Court.
Case No. A189-298