Houston Jury Finds Negligence, Awards $120,044 in Rear-End Collision

A plaintiff filed a personal injury lawsuit in Houston, Texas, alleging serious neck and back injuries after a defendant's vehicle rear-ended his car. The incident occurred on May 6, 2016, when the plaintiff was driving eastbound on the 6300 block of Court Road and was struck from behind by the defendant's vehicle. The plaintiff claimed the defendant's negligence included failing to maintain a proper lookout, driving at an excessive speed, failing to apply brakes, and not keeping a reasonable distance. He also alleged negligent entrustment against the vehicle owners.

The plaintiff stated he initially denied injury at the scene but experienced neck and back pain days later. He was diagnosed with disc injuries to his cervical and lumbar spine, requiring epidural injections and potential future surgery. The defendant contended the plaintiff made a sudden and unexpected stop, making the collision unavoidable. Furthermore, the defendant argued that the plaintiff's alleged injuries were degenerative and not caused by the accident, or were, at most, resolved soft tissue injuries.

A jury found the defendant negligent and determined that this negligence caused the plaintiff's injuries. The jury awarded the plaintiff $26,044 for past medical expenses, $74,000 for future medical expenses, $15,000 for past pain and suffering, and $5,000 for future pain and suffering. The outcome indicated the jury accepted the plaintiff's claims regarding the defendant's liability and the causal link between the accident and the plaintiff's sustained injuries and damages.