Louisville, Kentucky Jury Awards $118,545 in Rear-End Collision

In Louisville, Kentucky, a vehicle accident led to a damages-only jury trial. The incident occurred when the plaintiff, stopped at a red light on National Turnpike, was rear-ended by a vehicle operated by the defendant. The defendant's attention was diverted when an earbud was dropped. The collision was described as moderate, and the plaintiff did not report an injury at the scene, seeking treatment a day later. An MRI later indicated neck and back disc herniations.

The plaintiff filed a lawsuit seeking damages from the defendant. Liability for the collision was established via summary judgment, and the case proceeded to trial solely on the issue of damages. The plaintiff claimed $18,545 in medical bills and $50,000 each for past and future pain and suffering. The defense disputed the extent of the claimed injuries, emphasizing the plaintiff's lack of immediate injury report at the scene and significant gaps in subsequent medical treatment.

After a three-day trial, the jury awarded the plaintiff all claimed damages, totaling $118,545. This included $18,545 for medical bills and $100,000 for pain and suffering. The plaintiff ultimately received a judgment for at least $75,000, which comprised the defendant's $50,000 insurance policy limits and an additional $25,000 in underinsured motorist coverage from the plaintiff's own insurer. A separate bad faith claim against the defendant's insurer was proceeding.