Miami Judge Finds Liability in Rear-End Collision, Damages Undisclosed

A passenger filed a lawsuit after a multi-vehicle collision in Miami on July 1, 1996. The plaintiff was traveling near the intersection of N.W. 32nd Avenue and N.W. 185th Terrace when the vehicle she occupied was rear-ended by a Geo Tractor operated by the defendant's driver. An eyewitness stated the defendant's vehicle was traveling approximately 40 mph. The impact propelled the plaintiff's vehicle forward about 20 feet, causing it to strike a third vehicle, which then hit a tree. Liability for the incident was determined against the defendant through a summary judgment.

The case proceeded to address damages. The plaintiff presented testimony from a chiropractic expert and an orthopedic surgeon from Miami and Coral Gables, respectively. The defendant countered with testimony from an orthopedic surgeon in Miami Shores and a biomechanics/occupant kinematics expert from Miami. Before trial, the defendant offered $12,000 to resolve the claim, while the plaintiff sought $69,000. A $10,000 personal injury protection (PIP) set-off was anticipated, and the plaintiff's lost wage claim was dropped on the day of trial. The record did not indicate a final verdict or settlement amount following the summary judgment on liability.