Man claims various injuries after allegedly intoxicated driver rear-ended him

A man claims he incurred more than $100,000 in medical costs after an allegedly intoxicated driver rear-ended his vehicle.

Holace Skeel filed a lawsuit Oct. 10 in Jefferson County District Court against Hallmark County Mutual Insurance Co.

Skeel claims he drove north in the 7600 block of Highway 69 in Beaumont on July 22, 2011, when Juanita Peavy, who was driving behind him, struck the back of his vehicle.

Because of the collision, Skeel incurred neck, shoulder, back and hip injuries; incurred medical costs; and endured mental anguish, physical pain, suffering and disability, according to the complaint. He also lost his enjoyment of life, experienced physical impairment and lost wages and his earning capacity, the suit states.

Skeel blames Peavy for causing the collision, saying she negligently drove while intoxicated, drove too fast, failed to keep a safe distance, failed to stop and render aid and drove erratically.

At the time of the collision, Peavy had an insurance policy that paid up to $100,000 in costs. Skeel received all this money, but it was not enough to pay for his injuries, he claims. Now he seeks the remaining money from his insurance company, Hallmark County Mutual Insurance Company, according to the complaint.

Skeel seeks an unspecified judgment, plus pre- and post-judgment interest and other relief the court deems just.

Clay Dugas of Beaumont will be representing him.

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

Case No. B193-325