Texas Jury Awards $41,176 in Rear-End Collision

A vehicle collision occurred on December 29, 2017, on McGinnis Ferry Road near the intersection of Windward Road, when a vehicle driven by the defendant struck the rear of the plaintiff's vehicle, which had stopped in traffic. The incident resulted in property damage and bodily injuries to the plaintiff. The plaintiff filed a lawsuit on September 14, 2019, alleging the defendant violated state traffic laws by following too closely and failing to exercise due care while operating a motor vehicle.

The plaintiff sought compensatory damages for past, present, and future pain and suffering, as well as mental, physical, and emotional distress. The plaintiff also requested special damages for past and future medical expenses and lost income. Initially, the defendant raised several procedural defenses. However, in November 2019, the defendant admitted negligence and that their negligence caused the accident, but reserved the right to dispute the nature, cause, and extent of the plaintiff's alleged injuries and damages.

The case proceeded to a jury trial from April 17-19, 2023. During the trial, videotaped depositions from medical doctors were presented as evidence. On April 17, 2023, the jury found in favor of the plaintiff, awarding total damages of $41,176.40. This amount included $29,176.40 for medical expenses and $12,000.00 for past pain and suffering. The jury did not award damages for future pain and suffering. The court entered judgment on the verdict on June 2, 2023.