A man is suing Illinois water companies, alleging he fell in a meter hole because the cover wasn’t securely placed.
Plaintiff Patrick J. McDermott filed the lawsuit in the St. Clair County Circuit Court against Illinois-American Water Company, American Water Works Company, Inc. and American Water Works Service Company, Inc., citing negligence.
According to the lawsuit, the defendants are responsible for operating and maintaining meters and pit covers in Belleville. The lawsuit states that on June 18, 2021, McDermott was performing maintenance work on a property in Belleville and stepped onto a meter cover that wasn’t secured, causing him to fall into the hole.
The lawsuit states that the defendants negligently failed to secure the meter cover and failed to properly train its employees in the handling of meter covers
McDermott claims he has sustained serious injuries, which have caused him to experience pain, suffering, mental anguish, and lost wages. He alleges his injuries will impact his ability to enjoy normal activities and earn income in the future. He adds that he has incurred medical expenses and will continue to require the services of medical staff to recover.
The plaintiff is seeking damages in excess of $50,000, plus court costs and any other relief the court deems proper.
This article was first published in Madison Record.
