El Paso Jury Awards $10,679.31 in Rear-End Collision
One driver was operating a sport utility vehicle in El Paso when their vehicle was struck by another sport utility vehicle. The driver claimed injuries to their back and neck, while a passenger also claimed an injury. The lawsuit alleged negligence in the operation of the striking vehicle. One claim was resolved via a confidential settlement, and the matter proceeded to trial regarding damages for the driver.
Case Information Updated: October 2025
About Back Strain / Soft Tissue Injuries
Back strain and soft tissue injuries are among the most common injuries sustained in car accidents. These injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the back, often resulting from the sudden impact forces experienced during a collision.
Case Outcome
- Outcome
- Settlement
- Amount
- $10,679
- County
- El Paso County, TX
- Resolved
- 2019
Injury & Accident Details
- Injury Type
- Back Strain / Soft Tissue
- Accident Type
- Rear-end
- Case Type
- Motor Vehicle Negligence
Settlement Context
This settlement of $10,679 is near the median of $15,103 for back strain / soft tissue cases resolved by settlement. The typical range is $6,150 to $50,000, based on 95 cases in our database.
Case Overview
On May 13, 2017, in El Paso, Texas, a salesperson and her daughter were driving a sport utility vehicle when it was struck from behind by another SUV. The plaintiff driver claimed neck and back injuries, including sprains, strains, and a bulging disc, which she alleged caused radiating pain to her arms and hands. Her daughter, a passenger, also claimed an injury.
The plaintiffs sued the driver of the trailing vehicle and its owner, alleging negligence and vicarious liability, respectively. The claim against the vehicle owner was later discontinued, and the passenger's claim was resolved through a confidential settlement. With liability conceded by the defense, the case proceeded to trial solely to determine damages for the plaintiff driver. She sought $35,000, including past and future medical expenses, and damages for pain and impairment. A treating orthopedist testified that future medical care would cost $5,000.
The defense contended that the vehicle impact was minor, presenting photos showing little damage. Defense counsel also highlighted a gap in the plaintiff's medical treatment and the absence of lower back complaints in initial hospital records. The defense suggested an award covering only past medical expenses. After a two-day trial, an El Paso jury deliberated for two hours before awarding the plaintiff $10,679.31. This award included specific amounts for past medical costs, past physical impairment, past physical pain, and past loss of earning capacity.
Understanding This Case
- The majority of soft tissue injuries resolve within 6-12 weeks with proper treatment. However, approximately 10-20% of cases may develop into chronic conditions requiring ongoing care.
- This case was resolved through a settlement, avoiding the uncertainty and expense of a trial. Settlements typically resolve faster and provide guaranteed compensation.
- This case was resolved in El Paso County, Texas. Local jury tendencies, judge assignments, and regional economic conditions all influence case outcomes in this jurisdiction.
- Resolved in 2019, this case reflects the legal and economic conditions of that period, including medical costs, insurance practices, and jury award trends at the time.
VerdictlyTM Score
This outcome aligns very well with similar cases
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