Jury Awards $31,030 in 2017 Rear-End Collision Negligence

On January 25, 2017, a motor vehicle collision occurred on Stone Mountain Freeway when one vehicle allegedly struck the rear of another. On January 9, 2018, two occupants of the struck vehicle filed a lawsuit against the driver of the other vehicle, claiming negligent operation. The plaintiffs alleged the defendant followed too closely, failed to maintain reasonable control, did not take evasive action, and drove with reckless disregard for safety. They sought compensatory damages for physical and mental pain, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of earnings, medical expenses, and property damage, along with special damages and court costs.

The defendant filed a defense on February 12, 2018, arguing that the plaintiffs' failure to specifically state items of special damages precluded their recovery. The case proceeded through discovery, during which one co-plaintiff was difficult to locate. On November 14, 2021, the parties filed a joint motion, which the court granted, dismissing the co-plaintiff with prejudice. The action by the remaining plaintiff against the defendant continued.

The case ultimately proceeded to trial, and on June 10, 2022, the jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff. The court entered judgment against the defendant for $31,030.00, plus post-judgment interest at the legal rate. The defendant was also ordered to pay court costs totaling $396.44. The plaintiff successfully established the defendant's negligence in the 2017 motor vehicle collision.