The North Platte City Council unanimously voted to place on file at their regular session Dec. 15 a claim by a South Dakota couple that a city vehicle injured them in a collision in Dec. 2008.

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The claim has been forwarded to the city’s insurer, and City Attorney Doug Stack recommended the council place the claim on file.

The claim, made by Doris and George Alberts of Groton, S.D., said the incident took place Dec. 19, 2008 at the intersection of Leota and Jeffers as they were on their way to Colorado for their granddaughter’s graduation.

The Alberts were passengers in a 2006 Chrysler Town and Country driven by their son, Michael. They were traveling south on Jeffers.

A city gravel truck piloted by Richard Karre was eastbound on Leota when Karre allegedly ran a red light and collided with the Alberts vehicle. The claim stated that an independant witness confirmed the Alberts’ version of the incident.

The Town and Country was totaled and the Alberts’ were taken via ambulance to Great Plains Regional Medical Center.

George suffered eye damage, broken facial bones, and spinal damage, the claim alleged. An operation on his eye was performed at GPRMC and he had to undergo physical therapy upon his return home, according to the claim.

The claim also said that George continues to suffer from permanent right-side facial paralysis and neck pain.

Doris suffered bruises and abrasions on the left side of her body and a laceration over her eye that resulted in a visible, permanent scar.

The Alberts’ are seeking $180,000 in compensation due to what they believe was the city’s negligence. The claim stated that since the accident George has not been able volunteer, fish, golf, or maintain his yard.

Doris, the claim said, isn’t strong enough to garden as much as she used to.

The claim said the couple is hoping for an amicable settlement, but is prepared to go to court if necessary.