Texas Jury Finds Negligence in Rear-End Collision, Awards $14,000

On June 8, 2018, a rear-end collision occurred on Norman Berry Drive when a vehicle operated by the defendant struck the rear of a vehicle driven by the plaintiff. The incident happened as the plaintiff lawfully slowed to stop at an intersection. The plaintiff reported sustaining injuries that required medical treatment, incurring medical expenses of at least $49,822.39.

The plaintiff filed a lawsuit on July 27, 2020, alleging the defendant was negligent by traveling too fast for conditions, following too closely, and failing to maintain a proper lookout. The plaintiff sought recovery for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, physical and mental pain and suffering, and litigation expenses. The defendant and the insurer presented multiple defenses, including assertions that the defendant was not negligent, that any injuries were caused by others, that the plaintiff's own negligence might bar or reduce recovery, and that the alleged damages were remote, speculative, or unrelated to the incident.

The case proceeded to a jury trial, which concluded on September 2, 2022. The jury found in favor of the plaintiff and awarded damages totaling $14,000.00, with post-judgment interest. This award was significantly less than the medical expenses the plaintiff claimed to have incurred as a result of the accident. A final judgment was entered for the plaintiff in October 2022, and the case was formally terminated in March 2023 following additional proceedings.