Woman sues driver for backing into her vehicle

A Jefferson County woman has filed suit against the driver who she claims reversed into her vehicle.

Kelly James claims she was driving west in the 3100 block of Russell Drive in Port Arthur on Sept. 4 when defendant Christopher Ratcliff, who was driving in front of her, missed his left turn onto the 6100 block of Terry Street.

“In an attempt to back up to Terry Street, defendant then backed up and collided into plaintiff’s vehicle,” the suit filed Nov. 7 in Jefferson County District Court states.

Because of the collision, James suffered neck and back injuries; incurred medical costs; experienced mental anguish, physical pain, suffering and disability; and lost her enjoyment of life, the complaint says. She also claims she lost her earning capacity and endured physical impairment.

Ratcliff negligently failed to drive in a reasonable manner, failed to maintain a proper lookout and failed to back his vehicle in a safe manner, according to the complaint.

In her complaint, James is seeking an unspecified judgment, plus costs, pre- and post-judgment interest and other relief the court deems just.

Clay Dugas of Beaumont will be representing her.

The case has been assigned to Judge Donald Floyd, 172nd District Court.

Case No. E193-568