Houston Jury Awards $50,756 in Negligent Rear-End Collision

On June 26, 2016, a rear-end collision occurred on the Katy Freeway in Houston when a defendant's vehicle struck the rear of a plaintiff's car, causing it to spin. The plaintiff subsequently sued the defendant, alleging negligent operation of the vehicle and claiming injuries to the back and neck.

The plaintiff claimed to have suffered herniated intervertebral discs in the cervical and lumbar regions, nerve impingement, radiculopathy, and post-traumatic stress disorder, asserting ongoing pain that limited physical activity. Treatment included minor hospital care, physical therapy, and about 30 sessions of chiropractic manipulation. The plaintiff sought recovery for past medical expenses, as well as damages for past and future physical pain, mental anguish, and physical impairment. The defense conceded liability but disputed the extent of the plaintiff's injuries, arguing that medical records showed improvement and that chiropractic treatment was excessive. Both a pain management expert for the plaintiff and a chiropractic expert for the defense provided testimony.

After hearing arguments regarding damages, a jury awarded the plaintiff $50,756. The award included compensation for past medical costs, past physical pain, past mental anguish, and future mental anguish.