How Much Money Can You Expect From Your Car Accident?

When you get into an accident caused by someone else, that person's insurance company should pay for the property damage to your vehicle and any physical damage you experienced as a result of the accident. When the insurance company offers you a settlement, you may feel that it doesn't quite cover the damage you experienced. However, most people don't know what to expect in terms of compensation. Is the settlement offer from the insurance company more appropriate than you thought, or are they undervaluing your experience? Learn more about what settlement you should expect from a car accident.

What is the average car accident personal injury payout?

The average car accident payout in the United States is $20,235. The payout is often much higher if the person was injured. The average car accident property damage payout is $4,711. 

Since the damage varies so differently from case to case, you will need to talk to your lawyer to determine how much you can expect for your specific accident. 

What impacts the amount of the settlement?

There are numerous factors that determine how much you should expect from a personal injury settlement including:

  • the severity of the injury
  • the impact the injury has on everyday life and professional life
  • the cost of medical treatment
  • any psychological damage
  • the quality of evidence
  • the legal fees

Does it matter where the crash occurred?

Where the accident occurred can impact who you sue for the damages. Most states operate under a "fault-based" system. In a "fault-based" system, the injured party sues the insurance company of the person who caused the damage. In a "no-fault" state, the injured party sues their own insurance company for the damages. 

Most no-fault states award lesser payouts for injuries than fault states and recovery options are more limited, but a car accident personal injury lawyer will know how to best use the system to maximize your payout.  

Some of the no-fault states are:

  • North Dakota
  • Minnesota
  • Florida
  • Utah
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • New York
  • Michigan
  • Massachusetts
  • New Jersey
  • Pennsylvania
  • Hawaii

What happens if the driver at fault was uninsured or underinsured?

In the case that an at-fault driver does not have enough insurance to cover the cost of your damages, you will need to take the person to civil court. If the judge awards you a judgment, the defendant will have to pay you back. In the case that they don't have the money, you can have their wages garnished or go to a lawyer who will offer you a payout to take on the responsibility of getting money from the client. 

Contact a local car accident injury lawyer to learn more. 


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