Houston Motor Vehicle Negligence Settles for $22,930

On February 13, 2015, in Houston, Texas, a collision occurred when a defendant, driving a Honda CR-V westbound on Beechnut Road, attempted a left turn onto Beckford Drive and struck a plaintiff's eastbound Honda Accord. The plaintiff, an administrative employee, claimed to have sustained neck and back injuries, including herniated and bulging discs. The plaintiff subsequently filed a lawsuit against the defendant, alleging negligence for failing to keep a proper lookout, failing to yield the right of way, and making an unsafe left turn.

The defendant denied negligence, testifying that other vehicles on Beechnut Road obstructed the view during the turn. The plaintiff sought damages for medical bills totaling $56,626, along with past and future pain and suffering. During the trial, the defense presented evidence that the plaintiff had a history of neck and back injuries from a prior motor vehicle accident and had previously complained of back pain to a doctor, which contradicted the plaintiff's deposition testimony. Evidence of the plaintiff's 2008 theft conviction was also permitted. On the second day of trial, the parties reached a settlement, with the plaintiff receiving $22,930.