Douglas County, Colorado Jury Awards $122,000 in Rear-End Collision

In 2008, a motor vehicle operated by the defendant rear-ended another automobile operated by the plaintiff. The plaintiff subsequently alleged sustaining neck, mid-back, and low back pain, along with myalgias, anterior thigh soreness, and shoulder stiffness. The plaintiff further claimed an inability to perform daily activities, loss of enjoyment of life, mental anguish, and emotional distress, incurring medical expenses and economic losses.

The plaintiff filed a vehicular liability action against the defendant in the District Court of the State of Colorado, Eighteenth Judicial District, Douglas County, alleging negligence. The complaint was later amended to include additional negligence claims. The defendant denied the allegations and asserted affirmative defenses, including the plaintiff's failure to mitigate damages and that any injuries or damages were due to prior actions. A jury ultimately rendered a verdict in favor of the plaintiff, awarding a total of $122,000. The award included $77,000 for economic losses, $20,000 for non-economic losses, $15,000 for physical impairment, and $10,000 in punitive damages. Judgment was entered against the defendant.