Beaumont Jury Finds Split Negligence, Awards $99.07 in Rear-End Collision

On January 1, 2015, a plaintiff, a car wash employee, was driving east on Lucas Drive in Beaumont, Texas, when their vehicle was rear-ended by another driver. The plaintiff's vehicle spun off the road, and the plaintiff reported neck and back injuries.

The plaintiff sued the defendant for negligence, alleging failure to maintain a proper lookout, control speed, and brake in time to avoid the collision. The plaintiff contended they were traveling at a normal speed when hit. The defendant argued that the plaintiff stopped suddenly before the impact. The plaintiff sought compensation for soft-tissue neck and back injuries, which included emergency room treatment and 16 sessions of chiropractic physical therapy. The plaintiff claimed $4,471.14 in past medical expenses, along with past physical pain, mental anguish, and physical impairment.

After a two-day trial, the jury deliberated for four hours. The jury determined both drivers were 50 percent negligent for the collision. The plaintiff was awarded $99.07 for past medical expenses only. After the reduction for comparative fault, the defendant was held liable for $49.54.