Texas Jury Awards $950K in Motor Vehicle Collision

A collision occurred when the driver of a 15-passenger van, located in one of two adjacent left-turn lanes, reportedly proceeded straight and struck a plaintiff's vehicle that was turning left from the adjacent lane. Liability for the incident was stipulated.

The plaintiff claimed torn cartilage in the hip, which was treated conservatively. Although the plaintiff had sustained a similar injury nine months prior, it was argued that the earlier injury had healed before the collision. The plaintiff asserted that a subsequent injury of this type was more consequential, leading to extensive permanent pain and difficulties with ambulation. The plaintiff continued working as a teacher and volleyball coach, making no claims for lost income.

A jury awarded the plaintiff $950,000. This amount included $150,000 for past physical pain, $150,000 for past mental anguish, $100,000 for past physical impairment, $75,000 for future physical pain, $25,000 for future mental anguish, $250,000 for future physical impairment, and $200,000 for future health care expenses.