MT. VERNON, Ill. — Union Pacific Railroad Co. is suing a Fairfield Road man, saying he caused an accident which damaged a train engine, the Register-News reports.
Union Pacific claims in its lawsuit that Cliff Sanders’ “careless and negligent” acts caused the railroad $22,891.21 in damages, including the bill to repair a locomotive, $13,008.34; loss of the use of the locomotive, $6,316.60; and a train delay which cost the company $3,566.27.
Sanders was driving north on Illinois 37 near Bonnie at 1:55 a.m. March 6, 1997, when he lost control of his vehicle, causing it to damage the locomotive, the lawsuit filed in Jefferson County Circuit Court states.
Union Pacific charges that Sanders is guilty of one or more of the following acts or omissions: failing to keep his vehicle under control; driving his vehicle onto the property of the plaintiff; placing his motor vehicle in a position of danger on the tracks; failing to warn the plaintiff of the presence of the motor vehicle in a position of danger on the tracks.
Sanders had previously said he would pay the $22,891.21, but he has not, the lawsuit states. The railroad is seeking that amount plus interest and court costs and is seeking a jury trial. St. Louis attorney Robert Schmidt is representing the railroad.