Texas Jury Awards $50,013 in Rear-End Collision Injury Case

On March 14, 2014, a collision occurred on I-265 when the defendant rear-ended the plaintiff's vehicle. The plaintiff, who was 16 weeks pregnant at the time, experienced a moderate impact during which her stomach struck the steering wheel, prompting concerns for the baby's health. The baby was later confirmed to be healthy. The plaintiff subsequently received treatment for soft-tissue low-back pain, including physical therapy, but was unable to take pain medication due to her pregnant status.

The defendant conceded liability for the collision, so the case proceeded to trial solely on the issue of damages. The plaintiff sought compensation for $10,063 in medical expenses and an additional $75,000 for pain and suffering, presenting testimony from a reviewing physician who identified a chronic strain injury. The defense argued that the plaintiff's low-back pain was partially related to her pregnancy and also linked ongoing symptoms to a separate motor vehicle accident in September 2016.

A jury found in favor of the plaintiff by a 9-3 vote. The jury awarded the full $10,063 for medical expenses and $40,000 for pain and suffering, resulting in a total verdict of $50,013. A consistent judgment, less personal injury protection benefits, was entered.