Jessica Ashlee Ehorn b/n/f H.E., a minor vs. Michael Crowe

Case Background

On April 12, 2021, Plaintiff Jessica Ashlee Ehorn and Casey Ehorn, individually and as parents and next friend of H.E., a minor filed a rear-end collision lawsuit in the Tennessee State, Circuit Court of Davidson County(Case number: 22cv237). Judge  Winston Kidd presided over this case.

Cause

On November 13, 2020, Jessica Ashlee Ehorn drove her 2015 Toyota Sienna minivan with her minor son, Harrison Ehorn, as a passenger. While traveling on Lebanon Pike in Nashville, Tennessee, Jessica stopped for traffic. Defendant Michael Crowe, driving a 2013 Chevrolet Silverado, collided into the rear of Jessica’s vehicle without warning. This rear-end collision occurred because Crowe followed the minivan too closely and failed to maintain proper attention, creating an unreasonable risk of harm.

Injuries

The rear-end collision caused severe physical injuries to both Jessica and Harrison Ehorn. Jessica experienced physical pain, emotional suffering, and a loss of enjoyment in daily life. Harrison suffered similar physical and emotional pain. Both required immediate and ongoing medical care, leading to substantial healthcare expenses.

Damages

Jessica and Harrison Ehorn endured past and future pain, emotional distress, medical costs, and a diminished quality of life. Casey Ehorn, Jessica’s husband, suffered the loss of companionship and affection. The family sought compensatory damages for their losses, including medical expenses and emotional suffering, totaling up to $75,000.

Key Arguments and Proceedings

Legal representation

  • Plaintiff(s): Jessica Ashlee Ehorn | Casey Ehorn, individually and as parents and next friend of H.E., a minor
    • Counsel for Plaintiff: Jonathan Lewis Williams | Gregory Hazelwood
  • Defendant(s): Michael Crowe
    • Counsel for Defendants: Roger Wilson Hudson | Daniel Wesley Ames

Claims

Jessica and Harrison Ehorn endured past and future pain, emotional distress, medical costs, and a diminished quality of life. Casey Ehorn, Jessica’s husband, suffered the loss of companionship and affection. The family sought compensatory damages for their losses, including medical expenses and emotional suffering, totaling up to $75,000.

Defense

Michael Crowe asserted that he acted with reasonable care, followed traffic laws, and maintained safety while driving. He denied responsibility for the rear-end collision, claiming it was unavoidable despite his diligence. Crowe contested the Plaintiffs’ allegations and demanded strict proof of their claims. Additionally, he argued that the Plaintiffs’ own negligence might have contributed to the accident, potentially barring or reducing their recovery under comparative fault principles. Crowe reserved the right to present additional defenses as discovery progressed.

Jury Verdict

On November 19, 2024, The jury awarded $39,930 in damages for the harms, losses, and injuries sustained in the November 13, 2020, rear-end collision. Specifically:

  • Jessica Ashlee Ehorn received $12,930 for past damages, including:
    • $5,330 for past medical expenses,
    • $6,000 for past physical and emotional pain and suffering, and
    • $1,600 for the past loss of enjoyment of life and lifestyle.
  • Harrison Ehorn (H.E.) received $27,000 for both past and future damages, including:
    • $6,000 for future medical expenses,
    • $9,500 for past physical and emotional pain and suffering,
    • $4,500 for future physical and emotional pain and suffering,
    • $2,500 for the past loss of enjoyment of life and lifestyle,
    • $2,000 for the future loss of enjoyment of life and lifestyle, and
    • $2,500 for permanent injury.

Court Documents:

Documents are available for purchase upon request at jurimatic@exlitem.com