Texas Rear-End Collision Settles for $9,000
One driver was operating a vehicle with a passenger when they were struck from behind by another vehicle. The driver filed a lawsuit alleging the other driver failed to maintain a proper lookout, avoid the collision, maintain a safe distance, and brake in time. The case involved procedural issues and a settlement was reached during mediation.
Case Information Updated: October 2025
About Back Strain / Soft Tissue Injuries
Back strain and soft tissue injuries are among the most common injuries sustained in car accidents. These injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the back, often resulting from the sudden impact forces experienced during a collision.
Case Outcome
- Outcome
- Settlement
- Amount
- $9,000
- County
- Harris County, TX
- Resolved
- 2021
Injury & Accident Details
- Injury Type
- Back Strain / Soft Tissue
- Accident Type
- Rear-end
- Case Type
- Motor Vehicle Negligence
Settlement Context
This settlement of $9,000 is near the median of $15,103 for back strain / soft tissue cases resolved by settlement. The typical range is $6,150 to $50,000, based on 95 cases in our database.
Case Overview
On January 20, 2018, a plaintiff and her minor son were involved in a motor vehicle collision in Texas when their vehicle was rear-ended by another driver, resulting in injuries to both occupants. The plaintiff filed a lawsuit on July 16, 2018, individually and as next friend for her son, alleging the defendant's negligence. Claims included failure to maintain a proper lookout, failure to avoid a collision, failure to keep a safe distance, and failure to apply brakes in a timely manner. The plaintiff sought damages for medical expenses, physical pain, impairment, disfigurement, and mental anguish.
The defendant filed a general denial and asserted several defenses, including that a third-party driver allegedly struck both vehicles and fled the scene. The defendant also raised arguments concerning statutory caps on medical expenses and pre-judgment interest for future damages, and alleged contributory negligence by the plaintiff. The case experienced procedural complications, including a temporary dismissal for want of prosecution before reinstatement. A guardian ad litem was appointed for the minor plaintiff due to potential conflicts of interest.
The parties reached a settlement agreement during court-ordered mediation on December 5, 2019. Following a minor settlement hearing, an Agreed Final Judgment was entered on July 31, 2020. The judgment awarded total damages of $9,000.00, with $7,500.00 allocated to the individual plaintiff and $1,500.00 for the minor plaintiff. The funds designated for the minor were deposited into the court's registry.
Understanding This Case
- The majority of soft tissue injuries resolve within 6-12 weeks with proper treatment. However, approximately 10-20% of cases may develop into chronic conditions requiring ongoing care.
- This case was resolved through a settlement, avoiding the uncertainty and expense of a trial. Settlements typically resolve faster and provide guaranteed compensation.
- This case was resolved in Harris County, Texas. Local jury tendencies, judge assignments, and regional economic conditions all influence case outcomes in this jurisdiction.
- Resolved in 2021, this case reflects the legal and economic conditions of that period, including medical costs, insurance practices, and jury award trends at the time.
VerdictlyTM Score
This outcome aligns very well with similar cases
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