Denton County Jury Awards No Damages in Rear-End Collision

On June 11, 2013, a collision occurred in Denton County when a vehicle driven by the defendant rear-ended the plaintiff's vehicle, which was stopped at a yield sign. Police were not called to the scene. The plaintiff subsequently filed a lawsuit, alleging the defendant negligently failed to maintain a proper lookout, control speed, avoid following too closely, and brake or turn to prevent the collision. The plaintiff claimed to have suffered back injuries and headaches as a result of the incident.

The defendant admitted fault for the collision, testifying that she bumped the plaintiff's stopped vehicle after briefly checking traffic. However, the defense disputed the extent of the plaintiff's claimed injuries and damages. Defense counsel highlighted inconsistencies in the plaintiff's statements regarding the number of impacts and argued that it was a minor, low-speed accident with no reported injuries at the scene. Vehicle photos showing little to no damage were admitted over the plaintiff's objection. The defense also presented evidence of the plaintiff's prior medical history, including a previous lawsuit involving bulging discs, contradicting her testimony of never having hurt her back before. Questions were raised about chiropractic neck treatments despite the plaintiff's claim of no neck injuries, and about treatments occurring after the plaintiff reported zero pain.

The plaintiff sought $6,621.44 for past medical expenses, $176 for past lost wages, and unspecified amounts for past pain and suffering and physical impairment, citing emergency room visits and subsequent chiropractic care for lower back sprains, strains, muscle spasms, and headaches. Following a one-day trial in Denton County, the jury deliberated for 45 minutes. The jury found the defendant negligent but awarded no damages to the plaintiff.