By ANDREW BROPHY
Article Last Updated:
Saturday, February 02, 2002 - 6:46:46 AM MST
FAIRFIELD -- A Bridgeport woman who reportedly broke her legs and injured her neck and back in a Dec. 4 accident involving her Dodge Neon and a firetruck on Kings Highway Cut-off has filed a notice of intent to sue the town.
Ariel McCrary, 24, of Remington Street, claims her injuries were caused by the "negligence and carelessness" of the town and Firefighter Phil Higgins, who was driving the firetruck. The firefighters were dispatched in response to a report of smoke on the Post Road.
The accident occurred at Kings Highway Cut-off and Meadowbrook Road about 9 p.m.
Joseph C. Morelli, McCrary's New Haven attorney, says in the notice that Higgins "failed to properly stop at a red light and did not have any siren or lights operating before the accident to warn Ms. McCrary of any possible danger."
Town Attorney Richard Saxl said he had read the Police Department's accident report and that firefighters stated lights and sirens on both responding trucks were turned on and that they had a green light.
"I have no reason to doubt what the firemen said," he said.
Saxl said it is possible sound barriers along Interstate 95 near the accident blocked McCrary from seeing and hearing the lights and sirens.
Morelli said in the notice that McCrary also broke her right ankle and right arm, and suffered multiple bruises and contusions.
Also, McCrary has missed time at work, causing her to lose wages, and may have to do so in the future, the lawyer adds.
"The young lady was hurt. I feel sorry for her. If there is a lawsuit, we will deal with it appropriately and professionally at that time," Saxl said.
Higgins wasn't injured in the accident. Firefighter Douglas Chavenello, a passenger on the truck, was treated at Bridgeport Hospital and released.
Andrew Brophy, who covers Fairfield, can be reached at 330-6255.