Truck driver accused of causing automobile wreck

A Louisiana resident has filed a lawsuit against a Virginia truck driver after a 2009 automobile wreck.

Ronnie Pinion Jr. filed suit against Nationwide Truckers Insurance Co., Canal Insurance Co. and Alfonso A. Colindres July 27 in Tangipahoa Parish District Court. The defendants removed the case to federal court in New Orleans on Aug. 24.

According to court documents, the crash occurred on Aug. 6, 2009 as Pinion was riding as a passenger in a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado. Pinion states defendant Colindres, driving a 2001 Freightline Tractor vehicle, attempted to make a right turn from the left lane and crashed into the Silverado. The defendant allegedly admitted to the causing the crash and was cited for a violation.

The defendants are accused of failing to keep a proper lookout, failing to abide by state traffic regulations, failing to take proper precautions to avoid the crash, operating the vehicle in an unsafe manner, following too closely and driving the vehicle at an unsafe rate of speed.

Pinion is seeking damages for loss of enjoyment to life, physical pain and suffering, mental pain and suffering, medical expenses, loss of earnings, diminished earning capacity, disfigurement and physical disability, emotional and psychological problems, punitive damages, interest and court costs.

The plaintiff is represented by J. Garrison Jordan of Macaluso & Jordan of Hammond.

U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:10cv02812