HUNTINGTON — A woman is suing Tri-State Transit Authority for an accident that caused her family member serious injuries.
Jeffrey Williams was also named as a defendant in the suit.
Jacquelin Michelle Lawrence was a passenger in a 2018 Gillig Bus owned by Tri-State Transit Authority on May 5, 2021, according to a complaint filed in Cabell Circuit Court.
Mary Lawrence claims at that same time, another bus driven by Williams failed to stop and struck the rear of the bus in which Jacquelin Lawrence was a passenger. A third TTA bus then collided with the rear of the second bus.
Williams was negligent in the operation of the bus and in operating a vehicle without due caution or circumspection and with disregard for the safety of others, according to the suit.
Mary Lawrence claims Williams failed to maintain control of the vehicle and caused Jacquelin Lawrence's injuries.
"As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of the defendants, Jacquelin Lawrence suffered severe and permanent bodily injuries; said injuries caused Lacquelin Lawrence extreme physical and mental pain and suffering," the complaint states. "By reason of said injuries, Jacquelin Lawrence incurred expenses for the services of various medical treatment providers."
The plaintiff was restricted from her normal activities and her occupational duties and she suffered a loss of her ability to function as a whole person and suffered a loss of her ability to enjoy life, according to the suit.
Mary Larence claims TTA is liable in damages for the act and omissions of Williams because he was employed by TTA and was performing his work duties at the time of the accident.
Mary Lawrence is seeking compensatory damages with pre- and post-judgment interest. She is represented by Matthew J. Woelfel of Woelfel & Woelfel in Huntington.
The case is assigned to Circuit Judge Greg Howard.
Cabell Circuit Court case number: 23-C-150
