Houston Jury Awards $51,000 in Rear-End Collision
One driver was stopped behind a stalled vehicle when another driver rear-ended them. The injured driver claimed back and neck injuries, including herniated discs. The defense argued the impact was minor and the injuries were pre-existing or degenerative. The jury found the at-fault driver negligent.
Case Information Updated: October 2025
Case Outcome
- Outcome
- Verdict-Plaintiff
- Amount
- $51,000
- County
- Harris County, TX
- Resolved
- 2015
Injury & Accident Details
- Injury Type
- Lumbar Disc Injury
- Accident Type
- Rear-end
- Case Type
- Motor Vehicle Negligence
Case Overview
On May 14, 2011, a 57-year-old plaintiff was driving in Houston when his vehicle was rear-ended by an on-duty police officer. The incident occurred at approximately 1:40 a.m. on Interstate 45 near Memorial Drive after the plaintiff stopped behind a stalled 18-wheeler. A police report listed the officer's failure to control speed as the sole contributing factor. The plaintiff sued the city, alleging negligence by its officer.
The plaintiff claimed the impact was significant, resulting in lumbar disc herniations and neck and back sprains, with over $50,000 in medical expenses. His treating orthopedic surgeon linked the injuries to the accident and recommended surgery. The defense denied negligence, asserting a "sudden emergency," arguing the officer lacked time to stop and that the plaintiff had not used hazard lights. The defense contended the impact was minor and that the plaintiff's injuries were degenerative, with an expert stating only the initial emergency room visit was necessary.
After a two-day trial, a Houston jury deliberated for two hours. The jury found the city's driver negligent and awarded the plaintiff $51,000. The award included $50,000 for past medical costs and $1,000 for past physical pain and mental anguish.
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