David Lee Roth has field a lawsuite against Van Halen

LOS ANGELES (Van Halen Fans Website) - David Lee Roth has filed a lawsuit against his ex Van Halen bandmates, accusing them of conspiring to keep money from him.

The lawsuit filed Thursday in Superior Court alleges that Eddie Van Halen , Alex Van Halen and Michael Anthony diverted royalties and breached their fiduciary duty to Roth.

The singer claims the band signed a deal with Warner Bros. in 1996 without his knowledge or authorization for increased royalties from album sales. He claims his financial losses were estimated to be at least $200,000 at the end of 2001.

The former frontman wants an accountant to review the royalties and determine the interest on them. Roth also seeks unspecified compensatory, exemplary and punitive damages and legal fees.

Roth was the band's lead singer for eight years before going solo in 1985. He was reunited with Van Halen briefly in 1996 to record lead vocals on tracks for a greatest hits album.

Band members said they never promised Roth his old job back, although there were rumors that he would return.

Roth and Sammy Hagar, who became Van Halen's lead singer in 1986, appeared on tour together earlier this year. Hagar left Van Halen in 1996.