Houston Jury Finds Negligence, Awards $34,210.28 in Rear-End Collision
One driver was stopped at a stoplight when the other driver rear-ended them. The injured driver claimed neck and back injuries, including herniated discs. The defense argued the accident was minor and the injuries were not as severe as claimed. The jury found the at-fault driver negligent and awarded damages.
Case Information Updated: October 2025
Case Outcome
- Outcome
- Verdict-Plaintiff
- Amount
- $34,210
- County
- Harris County, TX
- Resolved
- 2018
Injury & Accident Details
- Injury Type
- Cervical Disc Injury
- Accident Type
- Rear-end
- Case Type
- Motor Vehicle Negligence
Case Overview
On August 24, 2016, a warehouse worker and restaurant server was involved in a rear-end collision in Houston, Texas. The plaintiff, stopped at a traffic light, was struck from behind by a vehicle operated by the defendant. The plaintiff subsequently filed a lawsuit claiming neck and back injuries, including herniated discs, alleging the defendant was negligent in operating their vehicle by failing to keep a proper lookout and control speed.
The plaintiff underwent physical therapy and presented an MRI showing cervical herniations, claiming ongoing pain and painful daily walks due to a lack of a vehicle. While the defendant acknowledged fault for the collision, the defense argued the conduct did not constitute negligence, suggesting the incident was "just an accident" with a minimal impact. Defense counsel noted photographs showed little damage to the plaintiff's older model vehicle, disputed the necessity and cost of treatment, and contended any injuries were minor sprains or strains that should have resolved. The defense also highlighted the plaintiff had not sought treatment for two years by trial. The plaintiff sought approximately $117,000 in total damages across seven categories.
After a two-day trial, a jury deliberated for one hour. The jury found the defendant negligent and awarded the plaintiff $34,210.28. The damages included $16,710.28 for past medical expenses, $5,000 for past physical pain, $2,500 for future physical pain, $5,000 for past mental anguish, $2,500 for past physical impairment, and $2,500 for future physical impairment.
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