Denton County Jury Issues Defense Verdict in Rear-End Collision

On October 24, 2014, the plaintiff, a counselor, was driving on State Highway 121 near its interchange with State Highway 114 in Denton County. While stopped on a single-lane entrance ramp to eastbound State Highway 114, the plaintiff's vehicle was struck from the rear by a car driven by the defendant. The plaintiff subsequently filed a lawsuit, alleging the defendant's negligent operation of her vehicle caused the collision and her injuries.

The plaintiff claimed injuries to her back, neck, and a tear of her left rotator cuff, and underwent chiropractic treatment and trigger-point injections. An orthopedist later recommended arthroscopic surgery for the shoulder. Plaintiff's counsel argued the defendant negligently failed to control her speed and keep a proper lookout, noting the police report listed "failing to control speed" as the only contributing factor for the defendant. The plaintiff sought approximately $12,000 for past medical expenses, $500 for past lost wages, $35,100 for future medical expenses, and unspecified damages for pain and impairment.

Defense counsel acknowledged the plaintiff stopped abruptly and argued the defendant was momentarily distracted by fast-approaching headlights from behind before the collision occurred. The defense also highlighted that the plaintiff had two prior accidents in 2011 and 2013, with complaints of left-shoulder pain after the second incident, and had used the same law firm and chiropractic clinic for treatment following the 2013 accident. The defense further contended that vehicle damage from the 2014 accident was not significant for either car.

After a two-day trial, the jury rendered a defense verdict. The jury determined that the defendant's negligence, if any, did not proximately cause the accident.