Dallas County Jury Awards $9,000 in Rear-End Collision

On January 16, 2014, a vehicle operated by the plaintiff, with a minor passenger, was rear-ended on Lake June Road by a vehicle driven by the defendant. Both occupants claimed neck and back injuries. The plaintiff, individually and on behalf of the minor, subsequently sued the defendant, alleging negligence in the operation of her vehicle. The defendant contended her foot had eased off the brake while stopped at a red light, arguing her conduct did not constitute negligence. Prior to trial, the minor's claims were settled for undisclosed terms, and the minor was dismissed from the case.

The trial proceeded with the adult plaintiff seeking damages for past medical expenses, pain, and impairment. The plaintiff reported soft-tissue injuries diagnosed after an emergency room visit and underwent extensive chiropractic care, claiming $18,918 in medical costs. A treating chiropractor opined that MRI imaging indicated the injuries resulted from the collision. The defense, however, argued that the plaintiff had a history of pre-existing neck and back injuries, that the treatment was excessive and unnecessary, and noted the treating chiropractor had provided contradictory opinions on the cause of the injuries.

Following a two-day trial in Dallas County, a jury deliberated for two hours. The jury found the defendant negligent and awarded the plaintiff $9,000 for past medical costs.