Man sues driver and insurer, claiming collision injuries

A Florida resident brought a lawsuit against an insurance firm and a St. Tammany Parish man for damages incurred in 2014.

Bobby Johnson of Tampa filed against USAA Casualty Insurance Co. of Baton Rouge and its insured, Joseph Cassanova of Mandeville, in the U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of Louisiana on May 4, citing liability in a June 2014 two-car collision in St. Tammany Parish.

The filing states that Johnson was traveling west on US-190 on June 28, 2014. Cassanova allegedly crashed into Johnson’s vehicle while attempting to turn right. According to the suit, Johnson was thrown about in his car upon impact, suffering multiple injuries.

The plaintiff alleges that the defendant failed to maintain a proper lookout and yield the right of way; observe existing traffic conditions in time to avoid an accident; maintain a safe distance, and drive safely and attentively. He is cited with driving while fatigued, making an improper right-hand turn, and crossing the lane improperly.

Johnson claims physical pain, mental anguish, and disability; aggravation and annoyance; medical expenses and loss of wages; diminished functioning and enjoyment of everyday life; and impaired psychological functioning.

The plaintiff seeks damages in excess of $75,000; attorney and expert witness fees, expenses, and costs. The plaintiff is represented by Michael Hingle and Bryan A. Pfleeger of Michael Hingle & Associates in Slidell.

U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of Louisiana Case 2:15-cv-01474-CJB-SS