Dallas Rear-End Collision Settles for $8,550

On June 11, 2013, a collision occurred on Masters Road in Dallas. A plaintiff, an employee, was driving her vehicle with a passenger when an unknown vehicle suddenly entered her lane, forcing her to brake. Her vehicle was then rear-ended by a vehicle operated by the defendant. The initial unknown vehicle fled the scene. The plaintiff claimed injuries to her shoulder, neck, and low back, while the passenger claimed injuries to his middle and lower back. Neither party contacted police nor sought emergency medical treatment immediately, though both later visited a local hospital for diagnostic testing, which did not reveal serious disc injury. The plaintiff was diagnosed with cervical and lumbar spine strains and sprains, along with shoulder strains, and the passenger with thoracic and lumbar spine sprains and strains. Both received several months of chiropractic treatment; the plaintiff also received an epidural steroid injection. They believed their injuries had resolved.

The plaintiff and passenger sued the defendant, alleging negligent vehicle operation. Plaintiffs' counsel argued the defendant's failure to maintain a proper distance and speed caused the rear-end collision. Defense counsel denied liability, asserting the defendant had stopped to avoid the plaintiff's vehicle but was then rear-ended by an unidentified third vehicle. Both legal sides acknowledged that the "phantom" vehicle that pulled in front of the plaintiff was also partially responsible for the collision. Defense counsel also disputed the extent of the plaintiffs' medical treatment, contending that their injuries only required several weeks of chiropractic care and that the long-term treatment received was excessive.

The parties reached an $8,550 settlement during pre-trial mediation. Under the terms, the plaintiff received $3,200 for past medical expenses. The passenger was awarded $3,500 for past medical expenses and $1,850 for property damage. The settlement amount was lower than the total claimed medical expenses by the plaintiffs.