Balch Springs Jury Finds Negligence in Rear-End Collision, Awards $10,736.50

On March 25, 2014, a rear-end collision occurred on Hickory Street in Balch Springs, Texas. The plaintiff was driving a sedan and slowing to make a turn when a pickup truck, driven by a teenage defendant without a license, struck the rear of her vehicle. The pickup truck was owned by the defendant driver's mother, who was also named as a defendant. The plaintiff claimed to have sustained neck and back injuries in the incident.

The plaintiff subsequently filed a lawsuit, alleging the defendant driver was negligent in failing to maintain a proper lookout, driving too fast, following too closely, and failing to brake. The plaintiff also claimed the defendant vehicle owner was negligent in entrusting the vehicle to her unlicensed son. The defendants largely conceded liability for the collision itself. The plaintiff sought damages for neck and back sprains and strains, diminished range of motion, and headaches, arguing these were new injuries or aggravations of pre-existing conditions. She underwent physical therapy, chiropractic care, and imaging, with a treating chiropractor testifying that the treatment was necessary and the injuries were accident-related.

The defense contended the impact was minor, noting the plaintiff did not complain of injuries at the scene and that her neck and back issues, including thoracic scoliosis and a congenital block in her cervical spine, were pre-existing conditions unrelated to the collision. The plaintiff sought over $21,000 for past medical bills, as well as compensation for past pain, mental anguish, and physical impairment. Following a trial, the jury found the defendants negligent and awarded the plaintiff $10,736.50.