McKinney, Texas Jury Awards $20,191 in Rear-End Collision

In December 2014, a multi-vehicle rear-end collision occurred on West University Drive in McKinney, Texas, involving five cars. The plaintiff, a passenger in one of the vehicles, claimed neck and back injuries, including a disc herniation. The plaintiff subsequently filed a lawsuit against the driver of the trailing vehicle, alleging negligence for failing to maintain a proper lookout, control speed, and avoid the collision. An initial negligent entrustment claim against the vehicle owner was dismissed before trial.

The plaintiff contended that the defendant's vehicle initiated a chain reaction by striking the car in front, which then impacted the vehicle behind the plaintiff's, ultimately pushing the plaintiff's vehicle forward. Testimony from multiple drivers involved and an investigating officer's report supported this sequence, indicating that initial impacts were felt from the rear. The defendant, however, denied negligence, asserting that another driver first struck the plaintiff's vehicle, triggering a different chain of events. The defense also questioned the extent and causation of the plaintiff's injuries, noting minimal damage to the plaintiff's vehicle and the absence of injury claims from other drivers involved in more significantly damaged vehicles.

Following a two-day trial, a jury found the defendant solely negligent. The jury awarded the plaintiff $20,191, which included $10,191 for past medical costs, $5,000 for past pain and suffering, and $5,000 for future pain and suffering.