Kentucky Jury Issues Defense Verdict in Rear-End Collision

On July 16, 2018, a rear-end collision occurred on Hurstbourne Lane at Bardstown Road in Kentucky. The defendant's vehicle rolled into the plaintiff's vehicle, which was stopped at a red light, after the defendant's foot slipped from the brake pedal. The incident resulted in minor damage to the plaintiff's Cadillac sedan. The plaintiff subsequently filed a lawsuit seeking damages for soft-tissue neck, back, and shoulder injuries, along with associated medical bills and pain and suffering. Fault for the collision was not disputed.

The plaintiff presented medical proof from treating physicians, claiming approximately $20,000 in incurred medical expenses. The defendant argued that the collision was very minor, with no immediate injuries reported at the scene, and that the plaintiff was able to drive away. The defense also relied on an independent medical examination by an orthopedic specialist, who concluded the low-speed impact's kinetics were insufficient to cause significant injury, suggesting at most a mild strain. Additionally, the defense contended that the plaintiff's symptoms were more likely related to a separate, more serious motor vehicle accident that occurred in 2016.

The case proceeded to trial solely on the issue of damages. After 90 minutes of deliberation, the jury awarded the plaintiff $4,043 for medical bills, but rejected the claim for pain and suffering. A defense judgment, reflecting a deduction for personal injury protection (PIP) benefits, was subsequently entered for the defendant.