Bridge City Jury Awards $37,261.15 in Rear-End Collision
One driver was stopped or slowing to turn when the vehicle behind her struck her car. The driver of the rear vehicle received a ticket for failing to control her speed. The injured driver claimed neck, back, and shoulder injuries, including aggravation of pre-existing conditions. She underwent surgery for a torn rotator cuff and treated for her back and neck pain. The defense argued the shoulder tear was degenerative and unrelated to the accident.
Case Information Updated: October 2025
Case Outcome
- Outcome
- Verdict-Plaintiff
- Amount
- $37,261
- County
- Jefferson County, TX
- Resolved
- 2018
Injury & Accident Details
- Injury Type
- Shoulder Injury
- Accident Type
- Rear-end
- Case Type
- Motor Vehicle Negligence
Case Overview
On June 19, 2017, the plaintiff was driving north on Texas Avenue, near Darby Street, in Bridge City, when her vehicle was rear-ended by a pickup truck driven by the defendant. The incident occurred as the plaintiff slowed for a left-turning vehicle ahead. The defendant received a citation for failing to control speed.
The plaintiff subsequently filed a lawsuit, alleging the defendant was negligent in operating a motor vehicle, failing to keep a proper lookout, control speed, and avoid the collision. The defendant stipulated to liability for the accident. The plaintiff claimed neck, back, and shoulder injuries, including a torn left supraspinatus tendon and aggravation of pre-existing disc herniations. She underwent shoulder surgery and physical therapy, testifying that her neck and back pain persisted, affecting her antique-collecting hobby. Her orthopedic surgeon testified that all treatments and bills, totaling $27,261.15 for past medical expenses, were reasonable, necessary, and accident-related. The plaintiff sought a total of $97,000 in damages.
The defense's orthopedic surgeon opined that the shoulder tear was degenerative and unrelated to the accident, and that the accident did not aggravate the plaintiff's pre-existing disc herniations. Defense counsel suggested total damages of $10,000. After a two-day trial and five hours of deliberation, the jury awarded the plaintiff $37,261.15. The award included $27,261 for past medical costs, $2,000 for past physical impairment, and $8,000 for past physical pain and mental anguish.
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