Irving, Texas Jury Awards $9,370 in Rear-End Collision

On November 20, 2012, a rear-end collision occurred on North Beltline Road near Grand Boulevard in Irving, Texas. The plaintiff, a painter, was driving a minivan with two passengers when the vehicle stopped in traffic. A sport utility vehicle, driven by the defendant, then struck the minivan from behind. The plaintiff claimed back, neck, and shoulder injuries and subsequently sued the defendant, alleging negligent driving, including following too closely and failing to maintain proper lookout or speed control.

The two passengers in the plaintiff's vehicle settled with the defendant for an undisclosed amount in December 2014, leaving the driver's claims to proceed to trial. The plaintiff claimed lumbar and right shoulder sprains, strains, and two cervical disc herniations. He underwent chiropractic care and physical therapy for six to eight weeks and sought approximately $12,000 for past medical bills and $14,000 for past lost earning capacity, in addition to other damages for pain and impairment.

The defendant, who did not attend the trial, argued through counsel that the plaintiff stopped suddenly and that the collision was not necessarily a result of the defendant's negligence. The defense also contended that the plaintiff's treatment was excessive, the MRIs were unnecessary, vehicle damage was moderate, and that the plaintiff had not treated for nearly three years prior to trial. Defense counsel also highlighted that the plaintiff's medical providers were commonly owned and that the plaintiff would not pay full bills unless the case was won, suggesting a financial interest in the outcome. After a one-day trial, the jury found the defendant negligent and awarded the plaintiff $9,370, specifically for past medical bills only.