North Richland Hills Jury Awards $16,500 in Rear-End Collision

On November 3, 2014, the plaintiff was driving her vehicle and stopped at an intersection in North Richland Hills, Texas, when she was rear-ended by a vehicle operated by the defendant. No police responded to the incident. The plaintiff subsequently alleged various injuries and filed a lawsuit against the defendant, claiming negligence.

The plaintiff asserted the defendant failed to maintain a proper lookout, control speed, avoid following too closely, and brake or turn in time to prevent the collision. The defendant countered that the plaintiff initially moved forward from the stop sign, then suddenly stopped again without cause, making it impossible for the defendant to avoid the collision. The plaintiff denied this account.

The plaintiff reported sustaining sprains and strains to her neck, lower back, and left shoulder, along with radicular pain in her right leg. She underwent physical therapy and chiropractic care for approximately three months, though a cervical MRI was reportedly normal. The plaintiff stated her injuries impacted her ability to engage in recreational swimming and care for her child, with recovery occurring within about six months. She sought $16,500 for medical expenses, in addition to past physical pain, mental anguish, and physical impairment. The defense contended that the medical charges and number of treatments were excessive, noting photos showed only minimal damage to the plaintiff's vehicle.

After a one-day trial, a jury found the defendant negligent and awarded the plaintiff $16,500. The final judgment, including prejudgment interest and taxable costs, totaled $18,844.79.