Neck Injury (Whiplash) 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
One driver was stopped in traffic when another driver rear-ended their vehicle. The collision pushed the first vehicle off the road. The injured driver sustained injuries to their neck, back, and shoulder, requiring surgery. The case involved accusations of the defendant driver using a cell phone at the time of the crash and the company's policies on cell phone use while driving.
One driver was stopped in traffic when another driver rear-ended their vehicle. The collision pushed the first vehicle off the road. The injured driver sustained serious injuries to their neck, back, and shoulder, requiring surgery. The case involved claims of negligence related to cell phone use by the defendant driver and company policies. The jury found the defendants negligent and awarded damages.
A driver lost control of a vehicle while speeding and under the influence of alcohol, causing it to roll over and catch fire. The passenger sustained fatal injuries. The passenger's estate sued the nightclub where the driver had been served alcohol, alleging negligence in serving alcohol to an intoxicated person. The defense argued the driver was not obviously intoxicated at the club and that the passenger was also negligent for not wearing a seatbelt.
One driver was stopped to make a left turn when the other driver, who admitted to being distracted, rear-ended them at high speed. The injured driver was taken to the emergency room with neck pain and a head laceration. Later, they underwent a cervical fusion surgery and experienced symptoms of a mild traumatic brain injury and seizure-like symptoms. Medical bills exceeded $400,000.
One driver was traveling on a freeway when their vehicle was struck from behind by a tractor-trailer. The impact caused the driver's vehicle to spin and also hit another vehicle. The driver was trapped and had to be extricated. They were treated for injuries including neck pain, headaches, and confusion, and later diagnosed with disc bulges and a traumatic brain injury.
One driver was rear-ended by a truck while driving in Vidor, Texas. The driver sustained injuries to their neck, upper back, and shoulder, requiring surgery. The injuries impacted their ability to work. The case was settled for $1.55 million.
One driver was helping another driver change a tire on the side of the road when a pickup truck struck him. The pickup truck driver was intoxicated and had prior offenses. The injured driver sustained injuries to his neck, ribs, and a concussion. The case involved claims of negligence against the pickup driver and negligent hiring and supervision against his employer.
One driver was operating a tractor-trailer and struck a sedan carrying a passenger. The passenger claimed injuries to their neck and arm. The case went to trial, and the jury found in favor of the passenger.
A four-car rear-end collision occurred in traffic. The plaintiff alleged the defendant was using a cell phone. The case focused on determining the damages.
One driver was stopped at a red light when the other driver rear-ended her. The injured driver experienced neck and back pain and later underwent surgery. The defendants admitted fault but disputed the extent of the injuries and damages.
One driver rear-ended another vehicle stopped at a stoplight. The injured driver claimed neck injuries. The defense argued that a subsequent accident caused the injuries. The case involved disputes over the extent and cause of the injuries, with the defense pointing to a later collision as the primary cause. The injured driver sought damages for medical bills and pain and suffering.
One driver was involved in a collision. The other driver sustained injuries.
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by rapid back-and-forth motion of the head, most commonly occurring in rear-end collisions. The sudden force stretches and tears muscles and tendons in the neck, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Symptoms can appear immediately or develop gradually over 24-48 hours and may include neck pain, headaches, shoulder pain, dizziness, and fatigue.
Rear-end collisions are the primary cause of whiplash injuries, particularly when struck from behind at moderate to high speeds. The victim's body is thrust forward while the head initially stays in place, then snaps forward and backward rapidly. Side-impact collisions, sudden stops, and T-bone accidents can also cause whiplash. Injury severity depends on impact speed, vehicle headrest position, neck muscle strength, and whether the victim anticipated the collision.
Initial treatment focuses on pain management and reducing inflammation through ice, NSAIDs, and rest (though prolonged immobilization is no longer recommended). Physical therapy typically begins within days to restore range of motion and strengthen neck muscles through gentle exercises and manual therapy. Severe cases may require muscle relaxants, cervical collars for short-term use (no more than 2-3 days), or injection therapy including trigger point injections or nerve blocks. Most whiplash injuries resolve within 3-6 months, though 10-20% of patients experience chronic pain requiring long-term pain management.
Whiplash cases in Texas often face skepticism from insurance adjusters who view them as minor, subjective, or exaggerated claims. Strong medical documentation is critical—immediate medical evaluation (ideally within 24-72 hours), consistent treatment records without significant gaps, and objective findings like reduced range of motion measurements, muscle spasm documentation, and imaging showing tissue damage. Cases with chronic symptoms lasting beyond 6 months benefit from medical expert testimony from orthopedists or pain management specialists explaining why some whiplash injuries cause lasting impairment despite normal imaging.
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.