Harris County Jury Awards $25,143 in Rear-End Collision

On March 9, 2018, in Harris County, a plaintiff's vehicle was rear-ended by a defendant's vehicle. The plaintiff, a 37-year-old U.S. Army member, claimed to have suffered neck and back injuries, including sprains, strains, and radicular pain. The plaintiff filed a lawsuit alleging negligence, and the court subsequently granted a directed verdict on liability, establishing the defendant's fault for the collision.

The plaintiff underwent various medical treatments, including hospital care, physical therapy, pain medication, and two facet injections. The plaintiff also testified to ongoing physical limitations following the incident. Plaintiff's counsel argued that while the plaintiff's vehicle sustained minor damage, the defendant's vehicle was totaled. The plaintiff sought over $68,000 in damages for past medical expenses, physical pain and suffering, and physical impairment. During the trial, a medical record mentioning a separate accident on March 30, 2018, was addressed by plaintiff's counsel, who argued it was either a date error for a 2017 accident that caused no injuries, or an isolated entry in extensive medical records.

The defense countered by suggesting the plaintiff should not be compensated for injuries after March 30, 2018, asserting that the subsequent accident was a separate cause. The defense also noted the plaintiff had not received treatment since 2019 and continued to meet military physical requirements, further arguing that the plaintiff's vehicle showed minimal damage. The defense proposed an award of just over $3,000 for past medical expenses.

After a one-day trial, the jury returned a verdict for the plaintiff, awarding $25,143.81 in total damages. This amount included $20,143.81 for past medical costs and $5,000 for past physical pain and suffering.