Marshall, Texas Jury Awards $35,343 in Rear-End Collision
One driver was stopped in a construction zone when the other driver rear-ended her. The injured driver claimed neck and back injuries, including a bulging disc. She underwent physical therapy and sought damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and property damage. The defense questioned the extent of the injuries and lost wages.
Case Information Updated: October 2025
About Back Strain / Soft Tissue Injuries
Back strain and soft tissue injuries are among the most common injuries sustained in car accidents. These injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the back, often resulting from the sudden impact forces experienced during a collision.
Case Outcome
- Outcome
- Verdict-Plaintiff
- Amount
- $35,343
- County
- Harrison County, TX
- Resolved
- 2017
Injury & Accident Details
- Injury Type
- Back Strain / Soft Tissue
- Accident Type
- Rear-end
- Case Type
- Motor Vehicle Negligence
Settlement Context
This verdict-plaintiff of $35,343 is above the median of $13,021 for back strain / soft tissue cases resolved by verdict-plaintiff. The typical range is $5,408 to $31,445, based on 800 cases in our database.
Case Overview
In January 2016, a driver operating a sport utility vehicle was rear-ended by a sedan while driving on Highway 59 in a construction zone in Marshall, Texas. The plaintiff driver, a sonogram technician, claimed neck and back injuries, including sprains, strains, a bulging cervical disc, and radicular pain. The plaintiff also sought compensation for property damage to the SUV, citing loss of use and diminution in value.
The plaintiff filed a lawsuit alleging the defendant driver was negligent, failing to maintain a proper lookout, control speed, and brake in time. The defendant driver admitted negligence during testimony, stating she had turned to look at the back seat and did not see the plaintiff's vehicle until it was too late. However, the defense disputed the extent of the plaintiff's claimed injuries and damages, questioning the necessity of physical therapy and arguing that claims for lost wages and vehicle diminution in value lacked sufficient evidence.
A jury found the defendant negligent. The jury awarded the plaintiff a total of $35,343.01. This included $25,843 for past medical expenses, $3,000 for past physical impairment, $2,500 for past lost earning capability, $2,000 for property damage, and $2,000 for past physical pain, suffering, and mental anguish.
Understanding This Case
- The majority of soft tissue injuries resolve within 6-12 weeks with proper treatment. However, approximately 10-20% of cases may develop into chronic conditions requiring ongoing care.
- This case went to trial and resulted in a jury verdict. Verdicts can yield higher awards but carry the risk of receiving nothing if the jury rules against the plaintiff.
- This case was resolved in Harrison County, Texas. Local jury tendencies, judge assignments, and regional economic conditions all influence case outcomes in this jurisdiction.
- Resolved in 2017, this case reflects the legal and economic conditions of that period, including medical costs, insurance practices, and jury award trends at the time.
VerdictlyTM Score
This outcome differs from typical similar cases
This score is calculated by analyzing injury type, accident details, geographic location, temporal trends, and comparing against 2,000+ similar cases in our database.
Want to check your case value?
Get a free case evaluation to understand what your motor vehicle accident case might be worth based on cases like this in Harrison County.
Similar cases you may find useful
Handpicked by matching injury type, accident details, and outcome to this case.
One driver was traveling on a tollway when their vehicle ran out of gas and became disabled. The other driver, who was following behind, struck the disabled vehicle. The first driver claimed injuries to their neck and back. The jury found the second driver 80% liable and the first driver 20% liable.
One driver was stopped on a road when their car was struck from behind by another car. This initial impact propelled the stopped car into a third vehicle. The driver of the first car claimed injuries to their back and neck, seeking damages for medical expenses and pain.
One driver was traveling south when their vehicle was struck from behind by another vehicle. The occupants of the first vehicle claimed injuries to their back and neck. The driver of the first vehicle alleged the other driver was speeding and inattentive, while the second driver claimed the first vehicle stopped suddenly. The first driver sought damages for medical costs, pain, and suffering.
One driver was stopped in traffic on a highway when their vehicle was struck from behind by a bus. The driver claimed the collision caused permanent injuries, forcing them to change to a less physically demanding job. The bus company denied negligence. The jury found the bus company at fault.
One driver was stopped at a red light when their vehicle was struck from behind by another vehicle. The driver who was struck claimed injuries to their back, knee, and neck. The case alleged the trailing driver was negligent for failing to maintain a safe distance and control their speed. The jury found the trailing driver liable and awarded damages for past medical expenses.
Explore More Cases Like This
Browse similar cases by injury type and location to get a better understanding of case values in your area.