Jefferson County Jury Awards $20,000 in Rear-End Collision

On April 3, 2015, a rear-end collision occurred in Jefferson County when a car driven by the defendant struck the plaintiff's vehicle. The plaintiff, a refinery fire watch, subsequently filed a lawsuit alleging the defendant driver was negligent in operating his vehicle. The lawsuit initially named the vehicle owner as a defendant, alleging vicarious liability, but this claim was later dropped, and the case proceeded against the defendant driver.

The plaintiff claimed to have suffered back injuries, including sprains and strains of the lumbar region, with pain radiating to a hip. The plaintiff sought treatment at a medical clinic the day after the accident and later underwent a nine-week course of chiropractic treatment. The plaintiff contended the accident involved a significant impact and sought $10,000 for past medical expenses and $30,000 for past physical pain and mental anguish.

The defendant driver admitted to tailgating the plaintiff's vehicle but argued the collision was minor and that his vehicle barely struck the plaintiff's car. The defense also challenged the legitimacy of the plaintiff's claimed medical expenses. A judge ruled that the defendant driver was liable for the accident, and the trial proceeded to determine damages.

After a two-day trial and 45 hours of jury deliberation, the jury awarded the plaintiff $20,000 in damages. The award included $10,000 for past medical costs and $10,000 for past physical pain and mental anguish.