Hurst, Texas Jury Awards $52,582 in Rear-End Collision

On May 11, 2012, a 72-year-old retiree driving a 2003 Ford F-150 pickup truck was rear-ended by a 2007 Toyota RAV4 on West Pipeline Road in Hurst, Texas. The plaintiff had been attempting a right turn when the collision occurred. The plaintiff subsequently sued the defendant for negligence. The defendant admitted fault for the collision during deposition and at trial, leading the court to grant a directed verdict on liability.

The plaintiff claimed a 12-mm herniation at L5-S1 and soft-tissue neck injuries, experiencing pain radiating into his right leg and both hands. He received chiropractic care across 58 sessions from May to October 2012, and an additional 43 sessions from September 2014 to June 2015. He also underwent lumbar epidural steroid injections. His incurred medical bills amounted to $45,456.37. The plaintiff alleged the injuries prevented him from working, volunteering, and engaging in hobbies, seeking damages for past and future medical costs, physical pain, and physical impairment.

The defense, while admitting fault for the incident, disputed the extent and causation of the claimed injuries. The defense argued that the plaintiff's pre-accident medical records indicated prior back complaints and a disc bulge. A defense expert, an orthopedic surgeon, opined that only a portion of the plaintiff's chiropractic care was reasonable and necessary. The defense also highlighted the lack of police or ambulance at the scene, minor vehicle damage, and gaps in treatment.

After a two-day trial and two hours of deliberation, the jury awarded the plaintiff $52,582.37. This total included $27,582 for past medical costs, $12,500 for past physical impairment, and $12,500 for past pain and suffering. With prejudgment interest and taxable costs, the final judgment totaled $64,000.