Big Spring Jury Awards $2,861.98 in Rear-End Collision

On December 17, 2014, a vehicle carrying the plaintiff, a construction business owner, was rear-ended by a pickup truck while stopped at a red light on Gregg Street in Big Spring, Texas. The plaintiff subsequently filed a negligence lawsuit against the driver of the pickup, alleging failures to keep a proper lookout, control speed, and brake effectively. The plaintiff also claimed the defendant was using a cell phone at the time of the collision.

The plaintiff sought compensation for neck and back sprains and strains, reporting an emergency room visit followed by months of chiropractic care and physical therapy. Damages claimed included $5,042.50 for past medical bills, as well as past and future physical pain, mental anguish, and physical impairment. The defendant did not strongly dispute liability for the collision but contested the severity of the impact and the extent of the plaintiff's injuries, presenting vehicle photos showing minor to moderate damage. The defense suggested the jury award only the cost of the emergency room visit.

After a two-day trial, a jury found the defendant negligent. The jury awarded the plaintiff $2,861.98 for past medical bills. The award, less than the amount sought for medical expenses and without compensation for other claimed damages, suggested the jury may have agreed with the defense's arguments regarding the severity of the injuries.