Cypress Jury Awards $27,000 in Rear-End Collision

In March 2013, a passenger vehicle traveling north on Barker Cypress Road near Jarvis Road in Cypress was rear-ended while stopped at a red light. The force of the collision subsequently caused the passenger's vehicle to strike the car in front of it. The plaintiff, a passenger in the rear-ended vehicle, claimed injuries and sued the driver of the striking vehicle, alleging negligent operation. The defendant conceded liability for the collision.

The plaintiff sought treatment for neck and lower back pain, receiving an emergency room visit, a diagnosis of a cervical disc protrusion and cervical radiculopathy, and undergoing epidural steroid injections and physical therapy. The plaintiff claimed ongoing chronic neck pain and migraines, along with approximately $20,000 in outstanding medical expenses. A pain management specialist testified for the plaintiff, asserting that the injuries were causally related to the collision but did not necessitate surgery.

The defendant disputed the extent of the plaintiff's claimed damages, arguing that her injuries were pre-existing and unrelated to the incident. An orthopedic expert for the defense testified that, based on medical records, the plaintiff sustained only minor neck and soft-tissue injuries to her left knee and shoulder.

Following a two-day trial, a jury deliberated for two hours before returning a verdict for the plaintiff. The jury awarded $27,000, which included $10,000 for past medical costs, $2,000 for future medical costs, $5,000 for past physical impairment, and $10,000 for past pain and suffering.