AT&T sues driver for allegedly damaging utilities after running into telephone pole

GRETNA – A driver is being sued by a phone company for allegedly damaging property after running into a telephone pole.

Bellsouth Telecommunications LLC and AT&T Louisiana filed suit against William H. Koenig and Ean Holdings LLC in the 24th Judicial District Court on April 9.

The plaintiffs claim Koenig was driving a vehicle owned by Ean Holdings when he drove into a telephone pole and damaged fiber optic cables and other utilities they own. Bellsouth and AT&T allege they had to undertake extensive repairs to repair the damage caused in the incident.

The defendant is accused of failing to know what should have been known, failing to observe what should have been seen, operating a vehicle without utilizing proper precautions, operating a vehicle at an excessive rate of speed, failing to keep the vehicle under command and violating parish and sate laws.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for repair costs.

The plaintiffs are represented by Michael B. Alker of Mandeville-based Sutton, Alker & Rather LLC.

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

Case no. 748-588.