Texas Jury Awards $400,000 in Motor Vehicle Accident

A 19-year-old plaintiff suffered bilateral ankle fractures in a motor vehicle accident after a 17-year-old defendant allegedly ran a stop sign, resulting in a near head-on collision that totaled the plaintiff's vehicle. The incident led the plaintiff to file a lawsuit alleging permanent injuries and significant damages.

The defendant initially claimed water on the roadway prevented stopping, but eyewitnesses testified there was no water and that the defendant did not apply her brakes. The defendant later admitted liability for the accident. However, the defendant disputed the extent of the plaintiff's claimed damages. The defendant driver's mother, also named as a defendant, was dismissed from the case on a motion for directed verdict at the close of the plaintiff's evidence.

The plaintiff alleged her bilateral ankle fractures required five surgeries, causing permanent pain, difficulty walking, and the need for a cane. She claimed arthritis would worsen and that her injuries prevented her from returning to her fast-food restaurant employment due to an inability to stand or walk for long periods. The defendant argued that the plaintiff's weight contributed to her pain and ambulation issues, and that medical testimony from the plaintiff's own physician indicated she remained employable.

A State Court jury deliberated for 55 minutes before awarding the plaintiff $400,000. The plaintiff had requested a verdict between $800,000 and $1,000,000 in closing arguments.