Beaumont woman files suit over rear-end collision

A woman has filed suit against the driver who she claims rear-ended her vehicle, causing her to incur medical costs.

Valarie Coleman claims she slowed down in an attempt to turn into a parking lot on her right when defendant Carl A. Gite rear-ended her vehicle on Nov. 10, 2009.

In addition to her medical costs, Coleman experienced physical pain and suffering and sustained physical impairment, according to the complaint filed Oct. 14 in Jefferson County District Court. She also experienced mental anguish, lost her earning capacity and sustained disfigurement, the suit states.

Coleman blames Gite for causing the collision, saying he negligently failed to control his speed, drove too fast, failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to maintain a safe distance between her vehicle and Gite's and failed to swerve to avoid a collision, the complaint says.

In her complaint, Coleman is seeking actual damages, plus pre- and post-judgment interest at the highest legal rate, costs and other relief the court deems just.

She will be represented by Ryan C. Scott of The Scott Law Firm in Beaumont.

The case has been assigned to Judge Milton Shuffield, 136th District Court.

Case No. D191-200