Doberta Bell has taken legal action against a Houston resident, claiming negligence in an auto-pedestrian accident that left her injured. The complaint was filed by Bell on February 7, 2025, in the District Court of Harris County, Texas, naming Patrick John Lace as the defendant.
The case stems from an incident on May 16, 2023, when Doberta Bell was struck by a vehicle driven by Patrick John Lace at the intersection of Cedar Street and Ferris Street. According to the lawsuit, Lace failed to yield the right-of-way to Bell, who was crossing at an unmarked crosswalk. The petition alleges that Lace's actions were negligent and led directly to Bell's injuries. "Defendant is liable for his failure to act as a reasonable and prudent driver would have under the same or similar circumstances," states the petition. It further accuses Lace of failing to apply brakes timely, maintain a proper lookout, control his speed, and pay adequate attention while driving.
Bell is seeking compensation for various damages resulting from the accident. These include physical pain and mental anguish both past and future, medical expenses incurred and anticipated in the future, physical impairment and disfigurement endured since the accident and expected going forward, lost wages along with diminished earning capacity, property damage including diminished value and loss of use of her belongings affected by the incident. Additionally, she seeks pre-judgment and post-judgment interest as well as any other damages that may be justified by law.
In her filing, Bell requests monetary relief exceeding $250,000 but not more than $1 million. She has also requested a jury trial to adjudicate this matter. Her attorney Brian Stansell from Smith & Hassler law firm will represent her interests in court.
This case is set before Judge Marilyn Burgess under Case ID 2025-08826 in Harris County District Court.