Louisville Jury Awards $17,693 in Rear-End Collision

On March 19, 2013, a vehicle operated by the plaintiff was rear-ended on Rudy Lane in Louisville by a vehicle operated by the defendant. The collision resulted in minor property damage, and the plaintiff subsequently developed soft-tissue symptoms, including neck stiffness. The plaintiff filed a lawsuit, alleging the defendant's negligence caused the incident and seeking damages for medical expenses and pain and suffering.

The defendant disputed liability, arguing the plaintiff had made a sudden stop prior to the collision. The defense also challenged the extent of the plaintiff's claimed injuries. Before the case went to the jury, the court entered a directed verdict for the plaintiff for $3,325 in medical expenses. An additional $9,968 in incurred medical costs and a claim for up to $40,000 in pain and suffering damages remained in dispute. A Louisville jury heard evidence over three days.

The jury returned a verdict finding the defendant solely at fault for the collision. For damages, the jury awarded the plaintiff the directed medical expenses of $3,325, an additional $8,368 for disputed medical costs, and $6,000 for pain and suffering. The total verdict amounted to $17,693, and a judgment was subsequently entered after a deduction for $10,000 in personal injury protection benefits.