Fort Worth Jury Awards $1,200 After Left Turn Collision

In Fort Worth, Texas, on March 23, 2015, a plaintiff driving a 2002 GMC Envoy was involved in a collision at a four-way stop. A defendant, driving a 2013 Hyundai Elantra, attempted a left turn from a cross street, turning sharply and striking the plaintiff's vehicle. The plaintiff claimed neck and right shoulder sprains and strains following the incident.

The plaintiff filed a negligence lawsuit against the defendant, alleging an unsafe left turn, failure to keep a proper lookout, and failure to yield the right of way. The defendant stipulated to liability for the collision, shifting the focus of the trial to damages. The plaintiff sought over $27,000 for past medical bills, lost earning capacity, and pain and impairment, describing treatment that included physical therapy and MRIs, which showed degenerative conditions. The plaintiff also stated experiencing ongoing pain and limitations.

The defense argued that the plaintiff's medical treatment was not medically necessary and served to inflate costs, noting consistent physical therapy modalities and excessive charges for services. Defense counsel contended that the MRIs were not indicated and did not alter treatment. The defense suggested a significantly lower range for damages, proposing zero to $3,000 for past medical bills and minimal amounts for pain and impairment. The plaintiff did not attend the one-day trial due to illness.

After deliberations, the jury awarded the plaintiff $1,200. The award was specifically designated for past medical bills only, indicating the jury largely sided with the defense's arguments regarding the necessity and cost of the plaintiff's claimed damages beyond a limited amount for medical treatment.