Dallas Jury Finds Negligence in Red-Light Collision, Awards $25,404.46

On December 5, 2014, in Dallas, Texas, a collision occurred when a defendant, driving a Lexus, ran a red light while eastbound on Turtle Creek Boulevard and struck the passenger side of a plaintiff's Honda Accord, which was traveling north on Cedar Springs Road. The plaintiff, a maintenance worker, claimed multiple injuries, including a lumbar disc bulge, neck and back sprains, and pain in the left shoulder, elbow, and knee. The plaintiff sought chiropractic treatment for about two months following the incident.

The plaintiff filed a lawsuit alleging the defendant was negligent by failing to keep a proper lookout, running a red light, driving too fast, failing to yield, and failing to brake or turn. The plaintiff also asserted the defendant was unfamiliar with the area and was observed holding a cell phone. The defendant contended that the traffic light turned green as the vehicle approached, prompting acceleration into the intersection, and that the plaintiff attempted to cross in front. The defendant denied using a phone and argued the plaintiff was negligent and more than 50 percent responsible for the accident.

The plaintiff sought approximately $19,104 for past medical bills and $20,000 for future medical bills, along with unspecified damages for pain, mental anguish, and physical impairment. The defense challenged the extent of the plaintiff's injuries, citing chiropractic records that indicated a pain level of zero upon release from care and arguing no evidence supported claims of mental anguish or the need for surgery. Following a one-day trial, a Dallas jury found only the defendant negligent. The jury awarded the plaintiff $25,404.46 in damages.