Arlington Jury Awards $13,500 in Rear-End Collision

On November 11, 2012, a rear-end collision occurred on Collins Street in Arlington. A plaintiff, a data entry worker, was driving northbound when traffic ahead stopped at the Lamar Boulevard intersection. The defendant's vehicle, traveling behind the plaintiff, then struck the plaintiff's stopped car. A police report identified the defendant as at fault for the collision.

The plaintiff sued the defendant, alleging negligent failure to control speed and maintain a proper lookout. The plaintiff claimed the defendant was traveling 30 to 40 mph at impact. The defendant admitted fault, leading the court to issue a directed verdict for the plaintiff on liability. The case proceeded to determine damages.

The plaintiff claimed injuries including a concussion, severe migraine headaches, neck and lower back sprains, and left shoulder pain, necessitating multiple emergency room visits. She sought $9,500 for medical bills and $13,920 for lost wages and diminished earning capacity, claiming the injuries led to job loss and reduced pay. She also sought $80,000 for past and future physical pain and mental anguish, totaling $103,420. The defense argued the impact was minor, occurring at 5 mph or less, resulting in minimal vehicle damage. Defense counsel contended the plaintiff's medical records contradicted her trial testimony and that her claims of severe, daily migraines were fabricated, suggesting no or only minor injury was sustained.

After a one-day trial and 40 minutes of jury deliberation, the jury awarded the plaintiff $13,500. This amount included $9,500 for past medical costs, $2,000 for past mental anguish, and $2,000 for past lost earnings and earning capacity. The jury's award was significantly less than the total damages sought by the plaintiff.