Richmond Jury Awards $18,470 in Rear-End Collision

On May 27, 2020, a deliveryman's vehicle was struck by a pickup truck in a Richmond drugstore parking lot. The plaintiff, who had parked his car, alleged that the defendant's truck hit the rear of his vehicle. The plaintiff claimed to have suffered injuries to his back, knee, and neck. He subsequently filed a lawsuit against the defendant, alleging negligence in the operation of the vehicle.

The plaintiff contended the incident resulted in sprains and strains of his cervical and lumbar regions, along with a torn right knee medial meniscus, stating his knee struck the dashboard during the impact. He sought recovery for $6,470 in past medical expenses, $65,000 in future medical expenses, and unspecified damages for past and future pain, anguish, impairment, and disfigurement. The defendant denied a collision occurred, stating no impact was felt. Defense counsel argued that any vehicle damage was preexisting, that the plaintiff's knee injury was pre-existing, and that medical expenses were excessive. The defense also noted the plaintiff did not immediately report the knee injury.

Following a two-day trial, the jury deliberated for three hours and determined that an accident did occur, finding the defendant liable. The jury awarded the plaintiff $18,470 in total damages, which included $6,470 for past medical costs, $10,000 for future medical costs, and $1,000 each for past physical impairment and past physical pain and mental anguish.