Driver hits road sign, blames DOT

CLAY – A Maysel resident blames the West Virginia Department of Transportation, Division of Highways for a 2013 incident.

According to papers filed, Ballas L. Beasley was traveling northbound on Route 4 in Clay County, a two-way undivided road, on or about Feb. 7, 2013. His suit, filed last month in Clay Circuit Court, states that Beasley observed oncoming traffic approaching closer to his lane than he judged to be safe.

When the plaintiff attempted to pull closer to the right side of the road, his vehicle struck a large sign on the side of the highway. According to the complaint, the sign was placed too close to the road by the defendant and did not allow access to the shoulder.

Beasley states that the sign warned drivers of road work located further north on Route 4. He contends that as a result of the impact he sustained injuries to his head, neck, shoulders, back and legs. According to court documents, he was transported by helicopter to a hospital.

The suit argues that Beasley’s injuries were directly caused by the sign’s negligent placement, creating a hazard for drivers.

Citing physical injury, pain and suffering, medical bills and out of pocket expenses, the plaintiff seeks judgment in the form of damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, attorneys’ fees and costs.

Randolph is represented by David Dawson of John R. Mitchell LC in Charleston. The case has been assigned to Judge Richard A. Facemire.

Clay Circuit Court case number: 15-C-11