Fort Worth Jury Awards $7,697 in Rear-End Collision

On February 11, 2016, a plaintiff was involved in a multi-vehicle rear-end collision on Jacksboro Highway in Fort Worth. The plaintiff's stopped vehicle was struck from behind by a pickup truck driven by a defendant. Moments later, the defendant's truck was struck by a trailing car. The plaintiff subsequently filed a lawsuit against both drivers, alleging negligence in the operation of their vehicles. The claim against the third driver was later discontinued, and the defendant driver conceded liability, leading the case to proceed to trial solely to determine damages.

The plaintiff claimed to have sustained sprains and strains to the cervical and lumbar regions of the back, along with a tendon tear in the left elbow. The plaintiff underwent arthroscopic surgery for the elbow injury in June 2017. Evidence included medical bills from the date of the accident and two follow-up orthopedic visits. Plaintiff's counsel sought $40,000 to $60,000 in total damages, comprising $14,687 for past medical expenses, $3,519 for past lost wages, and unspecified amounts for past physical pain, mental anguish, and physical impairment. Arguments for future damages were not pursued.

The defendant disputed the causation of the plaintiff's elbow injury, highlighting a delay in treatment and the plaintiff's prior statements to a doctor indicating uncertainty about the injury's timing. The defendant's counsel also noted references to unrelated medical issues within the plaintiff's surgery records and suggested a lower award for past medical expenses and lost wages. After a one-day trial and two hours of deliberation, the jury returned a verdict for the plaintiff, awarding $7,697 in total damages. The jury's award reflected a significantly lower amount than requested by the plaintiff, aligning more closely with the defendant's arguments regarding the extent and causation of the claimed injuries.