Suit blames driver for injuries

A Port Arthur woman claims she experienced physical pain and suffering after a driver rear-ended her vehicle. 

Martina Cunningham filed a lawsuit Oct. 1 in Jefferson County District Court against Robert Alan Stokes.

In her complaint, Cunningham alleges she rode in a vehicle traveling west on Highway 73 on Dec. 22 when Stokes, who was driving west on the same road, struck the back of Cunningham’s vehicle.

Because of the collision, Cunningham experienced mental anguish and physical impairment, lost her earning capacity and incurred medical costs, according to the complaint.

Cunningham blames Stokes for causing the collision, saying he negligently failed to timely apply his brakes, failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to drive in a safe manner, failed to maintain control of the vehicle and failed to keep a safe distance, among other negligent acts.

Cunningham seeks an unspecified judgment, plus interest at the legal rate, costs and other relief the court deems just.

Tom Oxford of Waldman Smallwood of Beaumont will be representing her.

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

Case No. D193-247