Harris County Jury Awards $657 in Rear-End Collision
One driver was slowing for traffic on a freeway entrance ramp when their pickup truck was struck from behind by a trailing sport utility vehicle. The driver of the pickup truck claimed injuries to their back and sought damages for medical expenses and lost earning capacity. The defense conceded liability, and the trial focused on the extent of the injuries and damages.
Case Information Updated: October 2025
Case Outcome
- Outcome
- Verdict-Plaintiff
- Amount
- $657
- County
- Harris County, TX
- Resolved
- 2019
Injury & Accident Details
- Injury Type
- Back Strain / Soft Tissue
- Accident Type
- Rear-end
- Case Type
- Motor Vehicle Negligence
Case Overview
On November 2, 2015, in Harris County, a fire-alarm installer driving a pickup truck on a freeway feeder road slowed for traffic and was rear-ended by a sport utility vehicle. The plaintiff, who reported back injuries, subsequently sued the SUV driver, alleging negligent vehicle operation. The defendant conceded liability for the collision, and the trial proceeded to determine the extent of damages.
The plaintiff claimed cervical and lumbar sprains and strains, asserting that the trauma resulted in disc bulges and radiculitis. The plaintiff sought over $19,000, which included past medical expenses, lost earning capacity, and damages for physical pain and impairment. The defense disputed the extent of the injuries, citing a 45-day gap in the plaintiff's treatment, the plaintiff's return to work the day after the incident, and photographs showing minimal damage to the plaintiff's truck compared to the defendant's SUV. The defense suggested an award of $332 for initial medical costs and $325 for lost earning capacity.
After one hour of deliberation, the jury awarded the plaintiff $657. This award included $332 for past medical expenses and $325 for past loss of earning capacity. The jury's verdict aligned with the damage amounts proposed by the defense, suggesting the jury was persuaded by arguments that minimized the claimed injuries and the extent of damages.
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