Dallas County Jury Awards $2,913 in Rear-End Collision

A motor vehicle collision occurred on April 26, 2016, on northbound I-35E near the 635 Express exit. The plaintiff's stopped vehicle was struck from behind by the defendant's vehicle, which failed to stop. The impact forced the plaintiff's vehicle under the car in front, causing the plaintiff to sustain neck, left arm, left shoulder, and mid-back pain. The plaintiff sought emergency room care, chiropractic treatment, and pain management for the injuries.

The plaintiff filed a negligence lawsuit, asserting the defendant's inattention caused the collision and resulting injuries. The court granted summary judgment, finding the defendant liable for the collision prior to trial. The case then proceeded to a jury trial solely on the issue of damages. The defendant contested the plaintiff's claimed damages, arguing that the plaintiff had failed to mitigate the injuries and that some or all of the alleged injuries were pre-existing.

The jury awarded the plaintiff $2,563 for past medical expenses and $350 for past physical impairment, totaling $2,913 in damages. With an additional $1,268 for court costs and attorney fees, the plaintiff's total recovery was $4,181.