Harris County Jury Awards $120,158 in Motor Vehicle Negligence

On June 11, 2014, a motor vehicle collision occurred on the South West Freeway Service Road in Harris County, involving two drivers. The plaintiff, one of the drivers, alleged that the defendant failed to yield the right of way while turning left and merging into traffic, leading to the plaintiff's vehicle striking the front passenger side of the defendant's car. The plaintiff subsequently sued the defendant, claiming negligence.

The plaintiff asserted right shoulder and lower back injuries, including a rotator cuff tear, shoulder impingement, and herniated discs. Medical treatment involved chiropractic care and epidural injections, and the plaintiff's treating doctor opined that the injuries were a direct result of the accident, predicting future arthroscopic shoulder and lumbar surgeries. The defense countered that the plaintiff's complaints were not caused by the accident and highlighted a gap in medical care. The defendant also argued the plaintiff was at fault for making a rapid lane change, crossing three lanes, and failing to maintain a proper lookout.

After a two-day trial and one day of deliberation, the jury found the defendant 75 percent negligent and the plaintiff 25 percent negligent. The jury awarded $160,211 in damages, including past and future medical costs, and past and future physical impairment. Due to the plaintiff's comparative negligence, the final award was reduced to $120,158.