Tarrant County Jury Awards $3,000 in Rear-End Collision

On November 28, 2015, a three-vehicle collision occurred on Interstate 20 in Tarrant County. The plaintiff, driving a sport utility vehicle, was exiting the freeway when traffic backed up. The second driver, in a Honda Accord, was behind the plaintiff, and a third driver, also in a Honda Accord, was behind the second driver. The third driver rear-ended the second driver, whose vehicle then allegedly struck the plaintiff's SUV. The third driver received a traffic ticket following the incident.

The plaintiff filed a lawsuit against both the second and third drivers, alleging negligence in operating their vehicles. The plaintiff claimed both defendants failed to maintain a proper lookout, control their speed, avoid following too closely, or brake in time. The plaintiff sought damages for multiple soft tissue injuries, including sprains and strains to the neck, back, shoulder, knee, and ankle, as well as a mild concussion and headaches. Medical expenses for past and future treatment, along with compensation for past and future pain, mental anguish, and physical impairment, were sought.

The third driver argued the collision was an accident caused by stop-and-go traffic and that their driving did not constitute negligence. The second driver contended that any impact with the plaintiff's vehicle was minor and occurred only because their car was pushed forward by the third driver's vehicle. The defense generally disputed the severity of the impact and the extent of the plaintiff's claimed injuries and ongoing pain, presenting counter affidavits from medical experts who opined on the reasonableness and necessity of certain medical treatments.

After a four-day trial and one hour of deliberation, the jury found negligence and proximate cause solely against the third driver. No damages were awarded against the second driver. The jury awarded the plaintiff $3,000.