Arlington Jury Finds No Negligence in Unsafe Lane Change Collision
One driver was changing lanes on the highway when she struck the side of another vehicle. The occupants of the struck vehicle claimed back injuries. The driver who changed lanes stated she signaled and checked her mirrors but did not see the other vehicle. The defense argued the impact was minor and questioned the credibility of the injury claims.
Case Information Updated: October 2025
Case Outcome
- Outcome
- Verdict-Defense
- Amount
- Undisclosed
- County
- Tarrant County, TX
- Resolved
- 2016
Injury & Accident Details
- Injury Type
- Back Strain / Soft Tissue
- Accident Type
- Sideswipe
- Case Type
- Motor Vehicle Negligence
Case Overview
On November 23, 2013, a collision occurred on Interstate 30 in Arlington, near the Lamar Street and Center Street exit. A plaintiff, driving a 2000 Ford Excursion, was westbound in the right lane with a passenger. The defendant, driving a 2008 Chevrolet HHR, attempted to merge left from exit-only lanes into the plaintiffs' lane, striking the right side of their vehicle. Both the plaintiff driver and the plaintiff passenger claimed neck, mid-back, and lower back injuries.
The plaintiffs subsequently filed a lawsuit against the defendant, alleging negligent failure to maintain a proper lookout and unsafe lane change. They sought damages for past medical bills, physical pain, mental anguish, and physical impairment. The plaintiff driver underwent physical therapy, chiropractic care, and an MRI, while the plaintiff passenger received physical therapy and chiropractic treatment. The defendant denied negligence, stating she signaled, checked her mirrors, and looked over her shoulder but did not see the plaintiffs' vehicle. Defense counsel argued the defendant acted as a reasonably prudent driver.
The defense also questioned the credibility of the plaintiffs' injury claims, asserting the impact was minor and a sideswipe, supported by photos showing minimal vehicle damage. They highlighted that both plaintiffs began treatment 17 days after the accident on the exact same day, and noted gaps in the passenger's treatment. Following a two-day trial, a jury found no negligence on the part of the defendant, resulting in no award to the plaintiffs.
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