Tag Archives: Godfrey

Articles

Auto accident on Humbert Rd. kills young couple

An automobile accident took the lives of a young Godfrey, Illinois, couple on Sunday December 20. Nicole and Chad Thorpe, both 27, and parents to a young two year old son, were tragically killed on Humbert road near Richland Woods Dr.. It appeared their 2007 Ford Edge ran off the road, struck a tree and flipped over. Sheriff’s Deputies said the vehicle was engulfed in flames when they arrived on the scene.

What caused the vehicle to swerve off the road is still unknown. The Madison County Sheriff’s Department is conducting an investigation into the possible cause. Both occupants suffered severe burns and were identified by dental records Monday. The coroner stated both victims died from smoke inhalation.

The car apparently was traveling north on Humbert Road and drove off the east side of the road before striking the tree. At this point, there is no evidence or report as to why the vehicle caught on fire. According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), there were an average of 356,000 vehicle fires and 512 civilian deaths reported between 1998 and 2002. Per the NFPA report, 3 out of every 5 passenger road vehicle fire deaths occurred in fires caused by collisions or overturns.

No one can prepare for the loss of a friend or family member. In some cases, victims are entitled to compensation and don’t even know it. If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious or even fatal traffic accident, the attorneys at WWF&G can help. Contact us at (618) 462-1077, 603 Henry St. Alton Illinois. Attorneys Licensed in Missouri and Illinois.

Articles

Ottawa Man Obtains Dramshop Liability Verdict Against Godfrey Tavern

Roper’s Regal Beagle lost a case against an Ottawa, IL resident who sought damages for injuries sustained in a bar fight.

Represented by WWF&G Attorney Michael P. Glisson, plaintiff James Ceja received a $35,000 verdict from the Madison County jury in last week’s dramshop case. According to the Madison/St. Clair Record, the award covered $24,000 in medical bills, $1,500 for pain and suffering and $9,000 in lost income. The insurance company offered $5,000 before the trial.

The fight two years ago pitted Ceja against Regal Beagle customer Michael Whittman, who became intoxicated by drinking alcohol purchased at the bar and rained blows upon Ceja. The fight caused Ceja to become injured and miss work time. Whittman settled the civil case earlier this year with the customer, but Glisson also held the Regal Beagle responsible for Ceja’s injuries.

Madison County Circuit Judge David Hylla presided over the trial, which began on Sept. 7.

Dramshop laws hold taverns and other businesses that sell liquor responsible for injuries caused by intoxication because they profit from sales of alcohol. The statute of limitations on such cases expires in one year, so victims of dram shop-related injuries are advised to act quickly. The State of Illinois Liquor Control Commission has set a limit of $60,247.68 for each person incurring damages, and the limit changes each year depending on the consumer price index.

As evidenced by the $35,000 result of Ceja’s law suit against Roper’s Regal Beagle, the dramshop liability attorneys of WWF&G are experienced at gaining positive results for clients in dramshop cases.