Driver allegedly runs over man, collides with home before fleeing on foot

GRETNA – A man is suing the owner of a car after an unknown driver allegedly ran him over and drove the car into a nearby residence before coming to a stop and fleeing on foot.

Carlos Lopez filed suit against Mainer Romero, John Doe and USAgencies Casualty Insurance Company Inc. in the 24th Judicial District Court on Sept. 5.

Lopez alleges he was standing in his driveway on the sidewalk in front of a residence located at 3412 Delaware Ave. in Kenner when an unknown driver, driving Romero’s vehicle, backed out of the driveway at a high rate of speed and ran over Lopez’s foot before pulling forward running into the home and coming to a stop in neighboring yard. The plaintiff contends that the driver then got out of the vehicle and ran away. Lopez asserts that he received severe injuries in the incident including lung bruises, a broken rib, broken collarbone, broken ankle, broken leg and fractured spine.

The defendant is accused of permitting the reckless and negligent operation of his vehicle, permitting his vehicle to be operated by an incapable and unskilled operator, failing to keep due and proper lookout over insured vehicle and failing to follow procedures for maintenance.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for medical expenses, loss of enjoyment of life, discomfort, mental anguish, pain and suffering and inconvenience.

Lopez is represented by Miguel A. Elias of the Kenner-based Law Office of Miguel A. Elias.

The case has been assigned to Division J Judge Stephen C. Grefer.

Case no. 742-095.