Houston Jury Awards $17,757 in Rear-End Collision

A plaintiff filed a lawsuit following a motor vehicle collision on December 30, 2022, at 609 S US 59 FWY IB. The plaintiff alleged a driver-defendant rear-ended her vehicle, claiming negligence for failing to control speed, maintain a proper lookout, and ensure an assured clear distance. The plaintiff also alleged the vehicle owner-defendant negligently entrusted the vehicle to the driver, seeking damages for personal injuries and court costs.

The defendants issued a general denial, asserting defenses of contributory negligence, sudden emergency, and unavoidable accident, while also denying negligent entrustment. They argued the plaintiff had prior injuries, failed to mitigate damages, and that her medical treatment was neither reasonable nor necessary, specifically challenging the medical necessity of MRIs, epidural injections, and the reasonableness of billing. Expert testimony supported the defense claims regarding medical costs and service necessity. The case proceeded to trial following continuances for discovery and mediation.

On March 14, 2024, the jury found in favor of the plaintiff. The court entered a final judgment on April 3, 2024, against the driver-defendant, awarding the plaintiff $12,413.00 in damages plus 8.5% pre-judgment interest, and an additional $5,344.93 including interest and court costs, for a total of $17,757.93.