Temple, Texas Jury Awards $345,921 in Rear-End Collision

On March 18, 2016, a 51-year-old electronic equipment specialist was driving on an interstate in Temple, Texas. While slowing for construction traffic, the plaintiff's vehicle was rear-ended by another driver. The plaintiff claimed to have sustained neck and back injuries, headaches, and radiating pain as a result of the collision.

The plaintiff filed a lawsuit against the defendant driver, alleging negligence in the operation of the vehicle. The plaintiff also sued the underinsured motorist carrier for benefits, which had $100,000 in coverage and agreed to be bound by the verdict and pay any award exceeding the defendant driver's $250,000 liability policy limit. The defendant driver, who had relocated for work, did not attend the trial, and the underinsured motorist carrier did not participate.

The plaintiff contended the accident aggravated previously asymptomatic lumbar disc bulges and required extensive treatment, including physical therapy, epidural steroid injections, and radiofrequency ablations. Medical records for nine years prior to the incident showed no complaints or treatment for back pain. A life care planner estimated future medical expenses around $316,000, while a pain management doctor estimated $108,000. The plaintiff testified about ongoing difficulties with work tasks, sleep, and charitable activities. The defense largely conceded liability for the collision but disputed the extent of the injuries, with an orthopedic surgeon testifying that the accident caused only temporary sprains and strains that would have resolved within three months. The defense highlighted that the plaintiff's MRIs and neurological tests were largely normal and consistent with age-related degeneration. The defense also pointed to some post-accident medical records indicating no complaints and questioned the plaintiff's life care plan.

After a three-day trial, the jury deliberated for three hours and returned a verdict, finding the defendant driver liable for the collision. The jury awarded the plaintiff $345,921.32. The underinsured motorist carrier was bound by the verdict. The defense counsel reportedly described the plaintiff as a "humble, credible, and likable" witness.