Dallas Jury Awards $11,000 in Motor Vehicle Negligence

On January 28, 2016, a collision occurred in Dallas, Texas, when the plaintiff, driving on Duncanville Road, proceeded through an intersection and was struck by a vehicle driven by the defendant, who was executing a left turn onto West Kiest Boulevard from the opposite direction. The plaintiff sued the defendant, alleging negligence and failure to yield the right of way. A judge issued a directed verdict establishing the defendant's liability, and the trial proceeded solely to determine damages.

The plaintiff claimed back, knee, and neck injuries, including a lumbar sprain, a left knee injury, a C6-7 disc protrusion, and disruption of the spine's cervical and lumbar lordosis. Residual muscle spasms, diminished neck range of motion, and headaches were also reported. Treatment included chiropractic manipulation, physical therapy, and a trigger-point injection, ending in April 2016. The plaintiff sought $21,951 for past medical expenses, alongside $4,000 for past pain, mental anguish, and physical impairment.

The defense contended that the plaintiff's injuries were unrelated to the collision, noting an eight-day delay before treatment was sought and the absence of evaluation by a medical doctor. A defense expert chiropractor opined the treatment was excessive in frequency and duration, estimating its cost should not have exceeded $2,290. After a four-hour trial, a jury deliberated for 1.5 hours and awarded the plaintiff $11,000, specifically for past medical expenses.