Houston Court Awards $12,000 in 18-Wheeler Rear-End Collision

On March 17, 2014, a vehicular collision occurred in Houston, Texas, when an 18-wheeler rear-ended a plaintiff's stopped vehicle on Highway 146, propelling it into a car ahead. The plaintiff alleged suffering serious and permanent injuries to the neck and back, among other ailments, as a result. A lawsuit was filed against the 18-wheeler's operator and the operator's employer, a drilling company, alleging negligence.

The plaintiff claimed the defendant driver was negligent by failing to maintain an assured clear distance, not keeping a proper lookout, failing to stop for a red light, and driving too fast for conditions. Additionally, the plaintiff alleged the defendant drilling company was negligent in supervising and monitoring the driver, and in its hiring practices. The defendant driver stipulated liability for the accident itself but denied that the accident caused the plaintiff's alleged injuries. The defendant company acknowledged the driver was acting within the scope of employment but denied its own negligence or responsibility for the accident.

The court found the defendant drilling company was not negligent. However, the court determined the plaintiff was entitled to $12,000 in damages, reflecting the driver's admitted liability for the collision while likely accounting for the dispute over the causation or extent of the alleged injuries.