Queens, New York Jury Awards $560,000 in Rear-End Collision

On March 30, 2017, a motor vehicle accident occurred in Queens, New York, near 182-27 North Conduit Avenue, when a vehicle operated by a defendant driver struck the rear of the plaintiff's vehicle. The defendant owner allegedly owned the vehicle operated by the defendant driver with consent. The plaintiff subsequently filed a lawsuit, alleging the collision was caused solely by the defendants' negligence, including claims of improper control, excessive speed, failure to maintain a proper lookout, and negligent entrustment. The plaintiff claimed serious personal injuries, as defined by state law, and sought economic and non-economic damages.

The defendants responded by asserting several defenses, including comparative negligence, arguing that the plaintiff's own actions contributed to the injuries. They also raised a seat belt defense, suggesting that damages should be mitigated due to the plaintiff's alleged failure to use restraining devices, and a collateral source defense regarding medical costs and economic losses potentially covered by other sources.

In May 2018, the court granted the plaintiff's motion for partial summary judgment on the issue of liability, determining the defendants were responsible for the collision. The case then proceeded to trial solely on the issue of damages. During deliberations in December 2021, the jury requested information regarding specific medical costs, including for knee surgery and an MRI for a lower lumbar herniated disc. Ultimately, the jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff, awarding $560,000 in general damages against both the defendant driver and the defendant owner for the injuries sustained in the accident.