Dillard’s named in parking lot accident suit

GRETNA – A Jefferson Parish man is suing a corporate retailer for injuries he claims to have received in an accident involving one of its vehicles.

Anthony Wickramasekera filed suit against Discovery Insurance Company, Higbee Lancoms LP, Dillard Department Stores Inc., Ralph Alleman and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance and Company in the 24th Judicial District Court on July 31.

Wickramasekera claims he was sitting in his parked car in the Dillard’s parking lot in Lakeside Mall located at 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd. in Metairie on Aug. 2, 2012 when Alleman exited the parking lot at a high rate of speed and struck his car. The plaintiff alleges Discovery Insurance provided insurance coverage on the car owned by Dillard’s. Wickramasekera asserts that because Alleman was driving his employer’s car they should be liable for the damages.

The defendant is accused of careless operation, failing to yield, failing to see what should have been seen, failing to keep a good and careful lookout, failing to maintain reasonable and proper control of vehicle, driving at a speed greater that was reasonable and operating a vehicle in a careless and reckless manner.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for physical pain and suffering, mental pain and suffering, rental expenses, property damage, loss of use and depreciation of vehicle, medical expenses, loss of earnings, loss of earning capacity, permanent disability, loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment of life, penalties and attorney’s fees.

Wickramasekera is represented by Edward J. Womac Jr. of the New Orleans-based Law Offices of Edward J. Womac Jr.

The case has been assigned to Division E Judge John J. Molaison Jr.

Case no. 729-504.