CHARLESTON – The passenger in a motor vehicle is suing the driver of another vehicle over injuries he allegedly received during a collision.
Chris Ortega filed the suit April 15 in Kanawha Circuit Court against Ohio resident Meriah Dunn and rental-car company Ean Holdings LLC.
On Nov. 19, 2014, Ortega was a passenger in a vehicle that was traveling northbound on Route 77 in Williamstown, the suit says, adding that at the same time, Dunn was driving a vehicle she had rented from Ean Holdings, also northbound on Route 77.
While allegedly driving under the influence, recklessly and with a revoked license, Dunn failed to maintain control of the vehicle, exceeded the posted speed limit and caused a collision, according to the complaint.
Furthermore, the suit alleges that Ean Holdings was negligent in renting a vehicle to a driver with a revoked license.
Ortega's injuries included those to his neck, chest, back and right leg. He has accumulated medical expenses, experienced pain and suffering, and his ability to enjoy life has been impaired, the suit says.
Ortega demands a judgment that will adequately compensate him for his injuries and claims, punitive damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, court costs, attorney fees and other relief the jury deems proper. He is represented by William M. Tiano of Tiano O'Dell PLLC in Charleston.
Kanawha Circuit Court Case number 16-C-574