Garland Jury Finds Negligence, Awards $17,703.50 in Rear-End Collision

On September 3, 2014, a rear-end collision occurred on Highway 635 in Garland, Texas. The plaintiff, driving a 2007 Chrysler 300, stopped due to an accident ahead when the defendant's 2014 Ford Mustang struck the plaintiff's vehicle. The plaintiff subsequently filed a lawsuit, alleging the defendant's negligence, specifically citing failure to maintain a proper lookout, control speed, avoid following too closely, and brake or turn in time. The plaintiff claimed to have sustained neck, upper back, and left shoulder injuries, including a bone bruise to the humerus and a contusion of the deltoid.

The defendant contended that the plaintiff stopped suddenly and that the defendant acted as a reasonable driver, despite acknowledging a following distance of one to two car-lengths. The defendant stated a distraction caused a delayed reaction, leading to the impact. Regarding damages, the plaintiff sought compensation for past and future medical expenses, lost earning capacity, pain, mental anguish, and physical impairment, supported by chiropractic care, physical therapy, and pain management. The defendant disputed the extent and causation of the plaintiff's injuries, noting minimal damage to the plaintiff's vehicle. The defense highlighted the plaintiff's involvement in multiple subsequent motor vehicle accidents and falls, as well as a prior shoulder surgery, suggesting current complaints could stem from these other incidents rather than the subject collision.

Following a two-day trial, a jury found the defendant negligent. The jury awarded the plaintiff $17,703.50, including specific amounts for past medical costs, physical impairment, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and lost earning capacity. With prejudgment interest and taxable costs, the final judgment totaled $21,343.81.