Sachse, Texas Court Awards $41,200 in Rear-End Collision

A motor vehicle negligence action stemmed from a rear-end collision on May 17, 2016, at the intersection of HWY 78 and Williford Road in Sachse, Texas. The plaintiff's vehicle, stopped at a red light, was struck from behind by a vehicle operated by the defendant driver and owned by the defendant car owner. The plaintiff driver and two minor passengers reportedly sustained neck and back injuries, including damage to the muscles and/or discs of the spine.

The plaintiffs alleged the defendant driver was negligent in controlling speed, failing to remain attentive, making a proper application of brakes, and maintaining a proper distance. The plaintiffs also claimed the defendant car owner negligently entrusted the vehicle to the defendant driver. The defendant driver contended that the vehicle's brakes failed and that she was lawfully operating the vehicle to move it to a secure location after the car owner's arrest. The defendant car owner maintained that the driver was not authorized to operate the vehicle at the time of the collision.

Following a court trial, the court found only the defendant car owner negligent. The plaintiff driver was awarded $12,000 for medical bills and $20,000 for pain and suffering. One minor passenger received $1,600 for past medical expenses and $4,000 for pain and suffering, while the second minor passenger was awarded $1,600 for past medical expenses and $2,000 for pain and suffering. The total recovery for the plaintiffs was $41,200.