Civil trial against Domino’s over delivery boy’s fatal collision enters second week

A civil trial against Domino’s Pizza, which focuses on a delivery boy’s fatal collision, has entered its second week of testimony.

Representing the estates of Devavaram and Ruth Christopher, Raghurami Reddy filed suit against Domino’s IP Holder and Joshua Balka on Sept. 7, 2012, in Jefferson County District Court.

Nearly a year later, the trial began Aug. 12 in Judge Bob Wortham’s 58^th District Court.

According to the plaintiff’s original petition, on Aug. 11, 2012, the Christophers were traveling on S. Major Drive in Beaumont when Balka, while in the employment of Domino’s, crossed the center lane and struck their vehicle head-on.

Ruth sustained injuries that ultimately proved fatal and Devavram was hospitalized with no positive cognitive function, the suit states.

In court documents, Domino’s asserts a general denial and argues that a third party negligently rotated Balka’s tires. Balka’s worn right tire and wet road caused him to hydroplane into the vehicle, he claims.

Jurors will determine if any negligence on Domino’s part caused the incident and whether to award damages suffered by the Christophers.

Domino’s is represented by Houston attorney James Ray of Daw & Ray LLP.

Provost Umphrey attorney Paul Ferguson Jr. represents the plaintiff.

Case No. A192-970