Allen, Texas Jury Finds Negligence in Rear-End Collision, Awards $51,536
One driver was stopped in a school drop-off line when the other driver rear-ended their vehicle. The injured driver claimed back and shoulder injuries. The court granted the injured driver a directed verdict on liability. The injured driver sought damages for medical bills and pain and suffering.
Case Information Updated: October 2025
About Back Strain / Soft Tissue Injuries
Back strain and soft tissue injuries are among the most common injuries sustained in car accidents. These injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the back, often resulting from the sudden impact forces experienced during a collision.
Case Outcome
- Outcome
- Verdict-Plaintiff
- Amount
- $51,536
- County
- Collin County, TX
- Resolved
- 2016
Injury & Accident Details
- Injury Type
- Back Strain / Soft Tissue
- Accident Type
- Rear-end
- Case Type
- Motor Vehicle Negligence
Settlement Context
This verdict-plaintiff of $51,536 is above the median of $13,021 for back strain / soft tissue cases resolved by verdict-plaintiff. The typical range is $5,408 to $31,445, based on 800 cases in our database.
Case Overview
In early 2014, a plaintiff, a building maintenance worker for the city of Allen, was rear-ended by a defendant while both were dropping off children at Allen Elementary School. The plaintiff's Chevrolet Suburban was stopped in the school's drop-off line when it was struck by the defendant's vehicle. The plaintiff subsequently sued, alleging the defendant negligently failed to maintain a proper lookout and control speed. The court granted the plaintiff a directed verdict on liability.
The plaintiff claimed lumbar sprains and a partial-thickness tear of the left rotator cuff, testifying he was reaching into the back seat with his right arm at the moment of impact. He underwent arthroscopic surgery in March 2016 and sought $39,036.31 for past medical expenses, plus damages for pain, anguish, and impairment. The plaintiff noted ongoing discomfort and the impact on hobbies like coaching and basketball.
The defense argued the impact was minor, presenting vehicle photos with minimal damage and an orthopedic surgeon's expert testimony that the accident could not have caused the shoulder injury. Plaintiff's counsel argued his body position explained the injury despite the minor collision.
Following a two-day trial, a jury awarded the plaintiff $51,536.41. Jurors reportedly indicated they would not award damages for impairment unless the plaintiff had missed work, which he had not. The final judgment, including prejudgment interest and taxable costs, totaled $61,109.58.
Understanding This Case
- The majority of soft tissue injuries resolve within 6-12 weeks with proper treatment. However, approximately 10-20% of cases may develop into chronic conditions requiring ongoing care.
- This case went to trial and resulted in a jury verdict. Verdicts can yield higher awards but carry the risk of receiving nothing if the jury rules against the plaintiff.
- This case was resolved in Collin County, Texas. Local jury tendencies, judge assignments, and regional economic conditions all influence case outcomes in this jurisdiction.
- Resolved in 2016, this case reflects the legal and economic conditions of that period, including medical costs, insurance practices, and jury award trends at the time.
VerdictlyTM Score
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