Demarcus Pugh, a Houston resident, has filed a lawsuit seeking over $1 million in damages after being struck by a vehicle while walking. The complaint was lodged on January 30, 2025, in the District Court of Harris County against Jonathan Jin Lee. The incident took place on November 29, 2024, when Pugh was hit by Lee's Lexus ES350 sedan as he walked near Kuykendahl Road and Brundage Drive.
According to the petition filed by Demarcus Pugh, the defendant, Jonathan Jin Lee, is accused of negligence for failing to operate his vehicle with due care. Pugh alleges that Lee breached his duty as a driver by not yielding the right-of-way to a pedestrian and failing to maintain a proper lookout. Furthermore, the complaint states that Lee was driving at an excessive speed and failed to control his speed or apply brakes timely. The plaintiff also accuses Lee of being distracted while driving, which contributed to the accident.
The plaintiff's legal representative is Daragh Carter from Smith & Hassler law firm. In their filing, they emphasize that the injuries sustained by Pugh have resulted in significant physical pain and mental anguish both in the past and expectedly in the future. The complaint outlines several elements of damages including physical impairment, disfigurement, loss of earning capacity, and loss of household services.
Pugh seeks judgment against Lee for all damages permitted by law. This includes punitive damages as well as pre-judgment and post-judgment interest. Additionally, Pugh requests compensation for reasonable medical expenses incurred due to the accident.
The case has been assigned to Judge Benita Bare in Harris County's 157th Judicial District Court under Case ID 2025-06292. Daragh Carter represents Demarcus Pugh with Abigail Villegas assisting on behalf of Smith & Hassler law firm.