Alleged drunk driver who was in accident and asked victim to not call police is sued

GRETNA – The driver of a vehicle who allegedly ran into another car, but asked the driver not to call police because he was drunk at the time is being sued.

Progressive Security Insurance Company, as subrogee of Juan Lara, filed suit against Christopher Bennett and D&M Automotive in the 24th Judicial District Court on March 3.

Progressive Security Insurance Company claims Lara, a driver insured by them, was traveling in his car on March 2 when Bennett, who was driving a vehicle owned by D&M Automotive, collided with him. The plaintiff alleges that Bennett told Lara he was intoxicated and asked him to not call the police to the scene of the crash with which Lara complied. Progressive Security Insurance Company asserts Bennett was responsible for the accident and he and the vehicle’s owner should be responsible for all damage to Lara’s car.

The defendant is accused of careless operation, negligent entrustment of a vehicle, operating a vehicle in an unsafe manner and failing to maintain control of the vehicle.

Damages in the amount of $29,280 are sought by the insurer.

Progressive Security Insurance Company is represented by Derrick M. Shelton of Baton Rouge-based Harrison & Pinson PLLC.

The case has been assigned to Division D Judge Scott U. Schlegel.

Case no. 736-102.