Longview Texas Jury Awards $15,000 in Rear-End Collision

On March 24, 2015, a rear-end collision occurred in Longview, Texas. A pickup truck driven by the defendant struck a second pickup truck, operated by the plaintiff, that was stopped at a red light. The plaintiff, an oil field worker, claimed to have sustained neck injuries in the incident. A police report indicated the defendant's failure to control speed was a contributing factor, and the defendant later admitted to looking at a cell phone at the time of the crash.

The plaintiff filed a lawsuit alleging the defendant was negligent by failing to control speed, maintain a proper lookout, driving too fast, following too closely, and failing to brake or turn to avoid the collision. While the defendant did not strongly dispute liability, the defense contested the extent of the plaintiff's injuries and the necessity of his medical treatment. The plaintiff sought $3,200 for past medical bills, along with compensation for future medical expenses and past and future pain and mental anguish.

The plaintiff presented evidence of a significant impact, including photographs showing substantial damage to the defendant's vehicle, an emergency room visit, and subsequent chiropractic care and physical therapy. A chiropractor testified that the plaintiff would likely experience occasional pain requiring future treatment. The defense argued that the impact was minor, resulting in little damage to the plaintiff's vehicle, and noted the plaintiff did not miss work and stopped treatment after two months. The defense also pointed to occupational medicine clinic records that did not recommend further treatment, suggesting the plaintiff's injuries were not severe or prolonged.

Following a two-day trial, the jury deliberated for 30 minutes. The jury found the defendant negligent and awarded the plaintiff $15,000. The award included $3,200 for past medical costs, $2,500 for future medical costs, $1,300 for past physical pain and mental anguish, and $8,000 for future physical pain and mental anguish.