Coca Cola Enterprises has filed a notice of substitution of counsel a suit brought by Beaumont local Delores Breaux, who sued the company alleging one of its employee’s, Edward Frank, caused an automobile collision.
As previously reported, the suit was filed Feb. 27 in Jefferson County District Court.
The notice states that Coca Cola is substituting attorney Tracy Richardson, formerly of Strong Pipkin Bissell & Ledyard, for Michael Bridwell, current attorney for the Beaumont law firm Strong Pipkin Bissell & Ledyard.
Coca Cola answered the suit on March 25, asserting a general denial and demanding strict proof, court papers say.
The answer also says the incident was “an unavoidable accident.”
According to the lawsuit, on Dec. 18, 2012, Frank, who was in the course and scope of his employment with Coca Cola, failed to control his speed and struck Breaux’s vehicle.
The suit does not state where or how the incident occurred.
Additionally, Frank is accused of negligently failing to maintain a proper lookout, timely apply his brakes and make a safe lane change.
Coca Cola is accused of negligently entrusting Frank, an incompetent driver, the suit states.
On top of exemplary and actual damages, the plaintiff is suing for her alleged past and future medical expenses, mental anguish, pain, impairment and disfigurement.
Attorney Matthew Matheny of the Provost Umphrey Law Firm in Beaumont represents her.
Judge Gary Sanderson, 6oth District Court, is assigned to the case.
Case No. B194-016
Coca Cola substitutes counsel in collision suit
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