Garland, Texas Jury Awards $21,343 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, stopped due to an accident ahead. The defendant, driving a 2014 Ford Mustang, then struck the plaintiff's vehicle from behind. The plaintiff subsequently filed a lawsuit, alleging the defendant was negligent by failing to maintain a proper lookout, control speed, avoid following too closely, and brake or turn in time to prevent the collision.

The plaintiff claimed multiple injuries, including neck and upper back sprains and strains, headaches, and a left shoulder injury, which consisted of a bone bruise and a contusion. She underwent physical therapy, chiropractic care, and pain management consultations. The plaintiff contended she had made a normal stop. The defendant, however, argued that the plaintiff stopped suddenly and that he acted as a reasonable driver. He acknowledged following the plaintiff’s vehicle by one to two car-lengths at 30-35 mph, stating he was momentarily distracted by another vehicle and could not stop in time after looking forward again.

The defense disputed the causation of the plaintiff's claimed injuries, noting she was involved in several subsequent motor vehicle accidents in December 2014 and April 2015, and two slip-and-fall incidents in May and July 2016, which resulted in various neck, back, and shoulder injuries. The defense also argued that the treatment and associated bills for the current incident were excessive and that no clear mechanism linked the rear-end collision to the shoulder injuries. After a two-day trial, a jury found the defendant negligent and awarded the plaintiff $17,703.50, including $11,816 for past medical costs, $2,000 for past physical impairment, $2,000 for past physical pain and suffering, $1,500 for past mental anguish, and $388 for past lost earning capacity. The final judgment, including prejudgment interest and taxable costs, totaled $21,343.81.