Texas Jury Finds Negligence, Awards $67,763 in Rear-End Collision

On February 12, 2015, a rear-end collision occurred when a vehicle operated by the defendant driver, allegedly using a cell phone, struck a vehicle carrying three plaintiffs. The defendant driver, who was operating a vehicle owned by the defendant company, reportedly fled the scene without providing information or aid. The plaintiffs subsequently filed a lawsuit alleging the defendant driver's negligence and that he was acting within the scope of his employment. They further claimed the defendant company was negligent in entrusting, hiring, supervising, and training the driver, whom they classified as a "High Risk Driver." The plaintiffs sought compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and physical impairment.

The defendants filed a general denial, asserting that the plaintiffs sustained no damages due to their actions. They argued that the sole proximate cause of the collision was the negligence of the plaintiff driver and raised comparative negligence claims. The defendants also denied allegations of negligent entrustment, hiring, supervision, and training. Prior to trial, the court granted several of the plaintiffs' motions, including those to exclude specific evidence regarding attorney referrals to healthcare providers and letters of protection.

On November 21, 2019, the jury found both the plaintiff driver and the defendant driver negligent in causing the incident. The jury apportioned 45% of the responsibility to the plaintiff driver and 55% to the defendant driver, finding the defendant company 0% responsible. Damages were awarded to all three plaintiffs for past medical expenses, physical pain, and physical impairment. The court ultimately entered a total final judgment of $67,763.58 against the defendants, which included prejudgment interest and costs of court.