Jose R. Guerrero v. Jesus A. Garza and Dolores Garza

On September 12, 1992, Guerrero's vehicle was stopped behind another vehicle, waiting for the other vehicle to turn. Jesus A . Garza , an unlicensed driver, ran into the back of Guerrero's vehicle while it was stopped. Jesus was running an errand for his mother, Dolores, who authorized Jesus to use her vehicle. Guerrero hit his mouth on the steering wheel of his vehicle causing his mouth to bleed. He went to a nearby convenience store and asked for ice, which he placed on his mouth. Guerrero did not report any injury to the police officer who arrived at the scene and did not seek immediate medical treatment. Guerrero later consulted with an attorney, and, subsequently, with a number of physicians and dentists. Guerrero brought action against the Garzas for damages, pain and suffering.

The jury found the Garzas negligent and awarded Guerrero the following damages: (1) $10,000 for physical pain and mental anguish suffered in the past and that in reasonable probability will be suffered in the future; (2) $5,000 for physical impairment sustained in the past and that in reasonable probability will be sustained in the future; (3) $5,000 for disfigurement suffered in the past and that in reasonable probability will be sustained in the future; and (4) $15,000 for medical expenses sustained in the past and that in reasonable probability will be sustained in the future.

Unknown

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The Garzas appealed the trial court's judgment. The Court of Appeals of Texas, San Antonio, affirmed the trial court. See: 993 S.W.2d 137 (Tex.App.-San Antonio 1999). The date shown above is the date of the appellate court decision and not the trial date. Reported by JAB.