Jury Awards $30,247 After Rear-End Collision for Permanent Injury

A plaintiff filed a lawsuit after sustaining injuries in a rear-end motor vehicle collision. The plaintiff, who was 27 years old at the time of the incident, alleged that the accident caused a herniated cervical disc, permanent injury, and required future medical care. The court granted the plaintiff summary judgment on liability.

The defendant disputed that the plaintiff suffered a herniated disc or a permanent injury as a result of the accident. The plaintiff’s orthopedic surgeon and neurologist testified that the plaintiff had a herniated cervical disc, which they demonstrated using MRI films. The plaintiff's neurologist also opined that the plaintiff would require cervical surgery and possibly a second surgery in the future, estimating future medical expenses at $120,000. In contrast, the defendant's neurologist testified that the plaintiff's MRI films were normal and showed no cervical herniation, concluding that the plaintiff did not sustain a permanent injury.

A jury found that the plaintiff sustained a permanent injury as a result of the accident and awarded $30,247. This amount included $5,000 for future medical expenses. The plaintiff subsequently filed post-trial motions to interview jurors, for a new trial, and for additur, all of which were denied.