Youngstown street dept., driver being sued in crash

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

A woman and a man who say they were injured in an accident in which a street department truck caused a utility pole and wire to crash onto their car have sued the city and its truck driver for more than $50,000.

Telasia X. Banks of Youngstown, the driver of the car, and her passenger, Khimani M. Chism of Struthers, filed the lawsuit Thursday in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court against Youngstown and its driver, Ronald Rogers of Youngstown.

The crash occurred June 20, 2011, at South Avenue and Wilbur Street as the truck, which was clearing debris from a demolition site, got snagged on utility wires, bringing down three utility poles and closing the intersection for several hours.

Both plaintiffs claimed head, neck and back injuries they said were caused by Rogers’ negligence.

However, Tom Sakmar, street department foreman, said at the time of the accident there were no injuries.

City Law Director Anthony Farris said his office will investigate and consult with the city’s insurance company.

The lawsuit, filed by Atty. Mark S. Gervelis, demands a jury trial and is assigned to Judge James C. Evans.