Fiery crash subject of Galveston County lawsuit

GALVESTON - Alleging he was in a fiery two-vehicle accident four years ago, local resident Robert C. Gleichman has filed a lawsuit.

Court papers filed Nov. 10 against American National County Mutual Insurance Co. and American National Property and Casualty Co. in Galveston County District Court insist Gleichman deserves proper compensation for the collision on Oct. 5, 2006.

According to the original petition, the plaintiff was driving a Jeep on his way home from work when a vehicle reportedly driven by an unlicensed illegal alien rear-ended him and caused a rollover.

The motorist, identified as Mr. Canales in the case, allegedly attempted to flee the scene of the accident, leaving Gleichman with his left leg trapped under the Jeep as it caught on fire, the suit says.

Gleichman blames Canales for failing to keep a proper lookout, failing to properly control the speed of his vehicle, failing to timely apply his brakes and failing to keep a reasonable and safe distance.

Gleichman learned the driver was underinsured and sought coverage from American National.

"At the time of the accident, the policy was in force and all premiums were paid," the suit says.

"As an insured, the plaintiff was entitled to timely payment of policy benefits including, but not limited to, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage."

A jury trial is requested.

Attorney Lawrence B. Greer of Houston is representing the complainant, and Galveston County 405th District Court Judge Wayne Mallia is presiding over the case.

Case No. 11-cv-1772