Dallas Jury Awards $121,763 After Left Turn Collision

A collision occurred on June 11, 2016, on Cockrell Hill Road in Dallas when the defendant, driving south, attempted a left turn and struck the left front of the plaintiff's sport utility vehicle with the front right of his sedan. The plaintiff claimed suffering back and neck injuries, including disc protrusions and bulges, spinal canal stenosis, and radiating pain. Following the incident, the plaintiff sought emergency medical care and later underwent physical therapy and pain medication. A chiropractor opined the plaintiff would require ongoing treatment.

The plaintiff filed a lawsuit, alleging the defendant's negligent operation of his vehicle caused the incident and subsequent injuries. The plaintiff testified having a green light and highlighted inconsistencies in the defendant's previous statements regarding the traffic signal. The defendant contended the plaintiff ran a red light, asserting the defendant had a green arrow. Defense counsel also argued that if both drivers had a green light, the incident was an unavoidable accident.

Defense counsel further disputed the extent and necessity of the plaintiff's medical treatment, noting a six-day delay in seeking care and a significant gap in treatment before trial. The defense suggested that if the jury awarded damages, it should be limited to the initial hospital visit costs.

After a two-day trial, a Dallas jury found the defendant liable for the collision. Following three hours of deliberation, the jury awarded the plaintiff $121,763. This amount included compensation for past and future medical costs, future physical impairment, and past and future physical pain.