Back Strain / Soft Tissue cases from motor vehicle accidents can vary significantly in severity and outcome. These cases involve injuries that may require medical treatment, rehabilitation, and can impact quality of life. Settlement values depend on injury severity, medical expenses, recovery time, and long-term effects on the victim's daily activities and ability to work.
Last updated: November 2025
A train struck a vehicle carrying four occupants at a railroad crossing. The collision occurred because a parked train blocked the view of the approaching train, and the crossing gates were down. The occupants sustained various injuries, and one occupant died as a result of the crash. The jury found the railroad company, the vehicle's driver, and the driver's employer negligent.
One driver was traveling north on a highway with a passenger when another driver rear-ended their vehicle. This caused a chain reaction, and the plaintiffs' vehicle struck two other cars. The plaintiffs claimed injuries to their back and neck.
One driver made an unsafe lane change, causing the vehicle behind them to rear-end them. The impact pushed the first vehicle into the one in front. The driver who was rear-ended sustained serious injuries and sought compensation for medical expenses, pain, and suffering. The defendants argued the other driver was at fault or that third parties caused the damages. A jury found in favor of the injured driver.
A driver was involved in a motor vehicle accident on a freeway. The collision occurred when one driver made an unsafe lane change, and another driver, operating a tractor-trailer, failed to control their speed and rear-ended the first driver's vehicle. This pushed the first driver's vehicle into the rear of the vehicle that changed lanes. The driver sustained serious injuries requiring medical treatment.
A driver stopped at a red light was hit from behind by another vehicle. The driver who was hit claimed injuries to her neck, back, and hips, requiring multiple surgeries and ongoing pain management. The other driver's employer was also named as a defendant. The defense argued the plaintiff's injuries were from subsequent incidents or pre-existing conditions.
One driver was operating an ATV when it lost control and crashed into a yard office, injuring the driver. The injured person claimed the employer failed to provide a safe workplace and proper training. The employer argued the incident was not covered by FELA. A jury found the employer's negligence caused the injuries.
One driver slowed to make a left turn and was rear-ended by another vehicle. The injured driver sought treatment for neck and back injuries. The jury found the second driver solely at fault for the collision.
One driver collided with the rear of another vehicle. The driver in the rear vehicle alleged serious injuries to their neck, back, head, shoulders, legs, and arms. The collision was attributed to the negligence of the driver and owner of the other vehicle. A jury awarded damages to the injured driver.
One driver was heading north on a freeway when a vehicle approaching from the opposite direction struck them head on. The occupants of the first vehicle sustained multiple injuries. The driver of the second vehicle was allegedly intoxicated and driving the wrong way. The case involved claims against the other driver and a bar for serving alcohol to an intoxicated person. The jury found the bar not negligent but awarded damages against the driver who had previously settled.
One driver was involved in a rear-end collision, which caused injuries to their back, head, and neck. The case resulted in a jury verdict for the plaintiff.
One driver was stopped at an intersection when another driver rear-ended her vehicle, pushing it into a third car. The injured driver sustained neck and back injuries requiring ongoing medical treatment. Her medical bills were over $47,600. She sued her insurance company and the driver who hit her, alleging they failed to control their vehicle, maintain a proper lookout, and brake in time to avoid the collision. The jury awarded over $1.24 million.
One driver rear-ended another vehicle while traveling on a street. The injured driver's damages were claimed to be greater than the at-fault driver's insurance policy. A bad faith claim was also filed against the injured driver's own insurance company.
Back strain and soft tissue injuries involve damage to the muscles, ligaments, and tendons supporting the spine and surrounding structures. These injuries occur when muscle fibers or ligaments stretch beyond their normal capacity or tear partially or completely. Soft tissue damage causes pain, swelling, muscle spasms, limited mobility, and inflammation that can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain affecting daily activities.
Motor vehicle accidents cause back strains through sudden impact forces, awkward body positioning during collision, seatbelt compression against the torso, and violent jarring motions. Rear-end collisions frequently cause lower back strain as the body is thrust forward then snapped backward. Side-impact crashes can cause asymmetric muscle damage and uneven spinal stress. Even low-speed accidents can cause significant soft tissue damage that may not appear on X-rays or initial examinations.
Initial treatment includes rest, ice application, NSAIDs for pain and inflammation, and avoiding activities that aggravate symptoms. Physical therapy typically begins within 1-2 weeks to restore range of motion, strengthen supporting muscles, and prevent chronic dysfunction. Treatment may include manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, heat therapy, and electrical stimulation. Some cases require muscle relaxants, trigger point injections, or epidural steroid injections. Most soft tissue injuries improve within 6-12 weeks, though severe strains may require months of treatment and some develop chronic pain syndromes.
Soft tissue injury cases in Texas face scrutiny because damage doesn't appear on X-rays or CT scans, making them harder to 'prove' than fractures. Success depends on consistent medical treatment starting immediately after the accident, detailed documentation of pain and functional limitations, MRI evidence showing tissue damage or inflammation, and testimony from treating physicians. Gap in treatment or delayed care allows insurance companies to argue injuries are not accident-related. Physical therapy records showing objective functional improvements strengthen claims significantly.
Common questions about motor vehicle accident cases in Texas
Important: The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Case outcomes vary significantly based on individual circumstances. Past results are not guarantees of future outcomes. Always consult with a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation.