Dallas Jury Finds Negligence in Bus Rear-End Collision, Awards $30,750

In April 2014, a passenger on a Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) bus in Dallas claimed injuries after the bus rear-ended another vehicle at an intersection. The plaintiff, who was a passenger on the bus, alleged the incident caused neck and back injuries.

The plaintiff subsequently filed a lawsuit against DART, asserting that the bus operator had been negligent in operating the vehicle. Evidence presented by the plaintiff included a police accident report, which concluded the bus driver was responsible for the collision. The plaintiff reported neck pain, back pain, and headaches, leading to diagnoses of bulges in lumbar discs and aggravation of degenerative cervical conditions. The plaintiff sought compensation for over $30,000 in medical expenses, along with unspecified damages for past and future pain and suffering and physical impairment, claiming ongoing pain prevented employment.

DART denied liability, arguing that the collision occurred partly because a vehicle ahead came to a sudden stop in heavy traffic. The defense also disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiff's injuries, contending the impact was minor, with minimal damage to both vehicles, and insufficient to cause the claimed injuries. DART further suggested the plaintiff's continuing pain might be related to two subsequent vehicle accidents the plaintiff had experienced.

After a one-day trial, a jury found DART negligent. Following 63 minutes of deliberation, the jury awarded the plaintiff $30,750 in damages for past medical costs.