How Much Is The Average Settlement For A Car Accident

If you have sustained an injury in a car accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation. One of the first things many of our clients ask is: How much is the average settlement for a car accident?

Several factors can affect the amount of compensation you receive in a car accident case. Working with an experienced car accident attorney could help your chances of receiving a fairer amount for your car accident settlement.

At Mulvihill Law Firm PLLC, we have a strong track record representing clients in personal injury cases. We can use our skills and experience with the law to help you navigate the process of your car accidents settlement.

Average Car Accident Settlement

In the United States, the average settlement for car accidents is $19,000. This figure is just an average, and your actual compensation may differ significantly. Several factors affect car accident injury settlement amounts in auto accident cases, and every settlement is unique.

It can be difficult to keep all the relevant facts of the case straight. That is why it’s in your best interest to hire a personal injury attorney. A car accident lawyer can assist you in taking the necessary steps to get the maximum possible car settlement payout.

Car Accident Compensation

Compensation for injuries in accident cases is called “damages.” Courts divide car accident settlement payouts into several categories, depending on the kind of compensation.

Physical Injuries

Compensation for physical injuries may include expenses for emergency medical treatment and continual treatment and rehabilitation. For instance, if you break your leg in a car accident, then damages may cover your immediate medical bills (e.g., ambulance, surgery, the hospital stay) as well as recurring medical costs (e.g., rehabilitation, prescriptions, personal care).

Property Damages

Compensation may also include reimbursement for sustained property damage. In the case of a car accident, property damages may include:

• Repair costs
• The fair market value of the car if totaled
• Rental car costs
• Replacement/upgrade costs (e.g., aftermarket stereo, new rims, etc.)
• Lost personal items (e.g., clothing, jewelry, phones, etc.)

You will need thorough documentation to claim property losses in a personal injury case. A personal injury lawyer can help you gather your financial documents and receipts.

Mental Injuries

Mental injuries may include mental trauma, PTSD, and other recurring psychological issues that trace back to the accident. Washington law requires that physical injuries cause mental anguish to be eligible for compensation for mental issues.

Pain and Suffering

Damages for “pain and suffering” include compensation for non-economic injuries. A judge may award damages for pain and suffering for:

• Inconvenience
• Disability or disfigurement
• Loss of consortium/companionship
• Humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment
• Destruction of relationship

Factors Affecting the Value of Your Injury Claim

Several factors can affect the value of your car accident injury settlement. Here are the most salient ones.

Insurance Policy

Generally, plaintiffs will seek insurance compensation first, then go to court to cover remaining expenses. Both your policy limit and the policy limit of the defendant affect the total value of the claim.

Vehicle Damage

Vehicle and property damage will also affect your injury settlement value. Damages may cover all repair costs insurance does not cover and the loss of personal items in the vehicle at the time of the accident.

Injuries

The nature, scope, and severity of your injury will determine a significant portion of your injury settlement’s value. The courts will take into account your immediate medical costs as well as the continual medical costs.

Employment

The typical car accident settlement may also cover lost income from the loss of employment. If you are put out of work due to your injury or have to reduce your workload, you may receive compensation for those lost wages.

What to Ask for in a Settlement

Every personal injury case is different and will have a different settlement. However, you should consider requesting the following damages in a car accident settlement:

• Vehicle repair costs
• Medical treatments
• Diagnostic tests
• Hospital fees
• Physical therapy
• Surgical procedures
• In-home medical care
• Loss of income
• Ambulance fees
• Prescription medications
• Pain and suffering

Preparing a personal injury case can be overwhelming. That is why it’s in your best interest to work with a compassionate and competent personal injury attorney.

Contact Our Dependable Car Accident Law Firm Today

A personal injury can take a significant physical, mental, and emotional toll. Fortunately, the average settlement for a car accident settlement includes provisions to lighten your burden. Our team of personal injury attorneys at Mulvihill Law Firm PLLC can give your case the attention it deserves. Call us today at (425) 368-3599 to schedule a case evaluation.