Harris County Jury Awards $15,658 in Rear-End Collision

On March 23, 2015, a plaintiff, a contractor, was driving a truck with two passengers near Interstate 45 and Louetta Road in Spring. While stopped at an intersection, a defendant rear-ended the plaintiff's vehicle in a compact car. Police did not investigate the incident. The plaintiff later claimed neck and back injuries, including herniated and bulging discs. The plaintiff's adult son, initially a passenger and plaintiff, nonsuited his claims before trial, and another passenger settled prior to trial. The case proceeded with only the driver as the plaintiff.

The plaintiff filed a lawsuit alleging the defendant was negligent in the operation of her vehicle. The defendant testified that she had looked away for traffic and did not realize the plaintiff's vehicle had stopped. Her attorney argued the incident was an accident and did not rise to the level of negligence. The plaintiff sought approximately $35,000 for past medical expenses, noting an emergency room visit, chiropractic treatment, and a lumbar epidural steroid injection two years after the accident.

The defense emphasized a significant gap in the plaintiff's medical treatment. Defense counsel also noted that several medical records mentioned the possibility of degenerative conditions in the plaintiff's neck and back, and that medical bills remained unpaid. The defense further argued that the impact was minor, pointing out the plaintiff's truck had a heavy steel rear bumper and sustained little damage. The defense suggested an award of about $10,000 if the jury found damages.

After a one-day trial in Harris County, a jury deliberated for 2.5 hours and found the defendant liable for the accident. The jury awarded the plaintiff $15,658.15. Jurors later indicated that they did not award any medical bills incurred after the plaintiff's gap in treatment. This case marked the first in-person civil jury trial in Harris County following pandemic-related court shutdowns.