A seemingly routine trip to a gas station turned into a legal battle when an individual was allegedly injured by another driver's vehicle. Michael Derkowski filed a complaint in the District Court of Harris County, Texas, on January 3, 2025, against Robert Ideus. The lawsuit stems from an incident that occurred on January 4, 2023, at the Murphy Express gas station located at 1527 N. Loop West in Houston.
According to the petition filed by Derkowski, while he was filling his truck with gas, Ideus requested him to close his passenger door so that Ideus could maneuver his vehicle into the pump area. After complying and stepping back against his truck to allow access, Derkowski claims that Ideus's vehicle struck him on the knee with its right-side bumper. This impact allegedly pinned Derkowski against his truck before knocking him to the ground. As a result of this incident, Derkowski experienced swelling and acute pain in his left knee which required medical attention the following day.
Derkowski accuses Ideus of negligence for failing to operate his motor vehicle safely and responsibly. He argues that this negligence directly caused his injuries and subsequent damages including past and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life. The plaintiff is seeking monetary relief amounting to less than $250,000 as well as actual and consequential damages.
The petition also outlines procedural details such as a jury demand made by Derkowski along with a request for initial disclosures from Ideus within thirty days of filing an answer. Furthermore, Derkowski's legal representation has notified Ideus under Rule 193.7 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure regarding the use of any documents produced during discovery or trial proceedings.
Representing Michael Derkowski is attorney Bart C. Frederick from Moorman Tate LLP based in Brenham, Texas. The case is being presided over by Judge Monica Jackson in Harris County's 125th Judicial District Court under Case ID 2025-00314.