Austin Rear-End Collision Settles for $500,000

In August 2015, a collision occurred on Interstate 35 North in Austin, Texas. The plaintiff was driving in the right lane when a tractor-trailer, operated by an employee of the defendant company, attempted to merge from the center lane. The truck's passenger side struck the rear driver side of the plaintiff's vehicle, causing it to spin 180 degrees. The plaintiff presented to an emergency room and later sought chiropractic treatment for lower back and left knee pain.

Medical evaluations revealed a herniated disc in her lumbar spine and meniscus tears in her left knee. The plaintiff underwent a course of epidural injections, followed by arthroscopy, a medial meniscectomy, and a laminotomy. She sought to recover over $104,000 in medical costs, as well as damages for past and future pain and suffering, despite making a good recovery with minor lingering discomfort.

Prior to litigation, the plaintiff and the defendant's insurer entered settlement negotiations. The parties ultimately resolved the case for $500,000. This settlement concluded the plaintiff's claims for injuries and damages resulting from the traffic incident.