Houston Jury Awards $6,000 for Injuries in Rear-End Collision

On October 2, 2011, a rear-end collision occurred on the feeder road of North Freeway (Interstate 45) in Houston. The plaintiff, driving a 1975 Chevrolet Caprice, was stopped at a red light at Airline Drive when the defendant's 2003 Ford Expedition, which had just exited the freeway, struck the rear of the plaintiff's vehicle. A police report indicated the defendant failed to control his speed.

The plaintiff subsequently sued the defendant for negligence, alleging failure to keep a proper lookout, brake timely, and control speed. The plaintiff claimed to suffer neck, back, and bilateral knee sprains and strains, asserting that the accident exacerbated pre-existing chronic pain in his back and knees. The plaintiff also claimed the injuries prevented him from working in his landscaping business and caring for his racehorses. The plaintiff sought $55,000 for past and future physical pain, mental anguish, and physical impairment; claims for medical bills and lost wages were withdrawn before closing arguments.

The defense largely did not dispute liability for the accident but argued that the impact was minor and that the plaintiff was not injured. The defense presented evidence that no ambulance came to the scene, the police report listed "no injury" for the plaintiff, and both vehicles received a low damage rating. The defense also highlighted the plaintiff's prior medical history and that he had not sought accident-related treatment after January 2012. After a one-day trial and two hours of deliberation, the jury found the defendant negligent and awarded the plaintiff $6,000 for past physical pain and past physical impairment. The jury did not award damages for mental anguish, future physical pain, or future physical impairment.