People often ask about the “average” personal injury settlement amount after being involved in a car accident or other incident. This makes sense, as someone hurt by another’s actions wants to know what they might expect. But the truth is, no universal average fits every case. Settlements vary based on many things, like the severity of injuries and the strength of evidence.
Instead of searching for a precise number, it might help to understand the factors that can affect your settlement. When you know what influences the final amount, you’ll have a better idea of what your case might be worth.
Why There’s No Single Average Amount
No two personal injury claims are the same. One accident might lead to minor injuries and minimal medical bills, while another can cause lifelong disabilities. Each situation has its own details, making it tough to group all cases together and determine a meaningful average.
Think of it like buying a house: prices depend on location, size, condition, and other details. Similarly, personal injury settlements depend on elements unique to your situation.
Key Factors That Can Affect Settlement Amounts
Your settlement amount depends on several important factors. Before listing them, keep in mind that each personal injury case is different. After reviewing these points, you’ll see why settlements range so widely.
- Severity of injuries: Serious injuries often lead to higher settlements. Someone with multiple broken bones, a brain injury, or ongoing pain usually requires more money to cover medical care, lost income, and other losses.
- Liability and clarity of fault: If it’s clear that the other party caused the accident, the insurance company may be more likely to offer a fair settlement quickly. But if there’s a dispute over who is at fault, you may need more time and evidence to prove your case, which can affect the final amount.
- Medical costs and treatment: The total cost of your medical care, both now and in the future, can greatly influence your settlement. Higher medical expenses often lead to larger settlements since part of the payment covers these bills.
- Lost wages and earning capacity: If you miss work due to your injuries, you can claim lost income. If your injuries prevent you from working at the same capacity in the long run, that can also increase your settlement.
- Insurance limits: Insurance policies have maximum payouts. Even if you deserve more, the insurer will not pay beyond those limits. This can sometimes cap your potential settlement amount.
These factors work together. A straightforward case with serious injuries and a clearly responsible party often results in a higher settlement. On the other hand, a complicated case with questions regarding who’s at fault or no permanent injuries might yield less.
Common Settlement Ranges To Expect
While there’s no one-size-fits-all figure, some personal injury settlements might fall in a broad range. Minor injury cases could settle for a few thousand dollars, while cases with more serious harm might reach tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands. In rare, severe cases, settlements can reach into the millions.
These are not guarantees. They’re just rough ideas to help you understand that the range is wide. Your case may settle for more or less, depending on the details.
Economic vs. Non-Economic Damages
When thinking about the value of your case, it helps to know the difference between economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages are the financial losses you can add up relatively easily. Non-economic damages are harder to measure since they cover things like pain, suffering, and how your life changes after the injury.
Here are some examples of each type:
- Economic damages: Medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, property damage, and any other measurable financial losses
- Non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, reduced quality of life, and scarring or disfigurement
Remember that both types of damages matter. Economic damages help cover your concrete expenses, while non-economic damages compensate you for the human side of your suffering.
Building a Strong Personal Injury Claim
If you want to maximize your settlement, consider taking steps to strengthen your claim. Good preparation can make a big difference in the final amount you receive.
You should gather solid evidence, like medical records, accident reports, and eyewitness statements. Keep track of all your expenses related to the injury. Document everything, from the moment the accident happened to your ongoing treatments.
If you have questions or doubts, speaking with a personal injury attorney can help. A lawyer knows what evidence is needed, how to present it, and how to deal with insurance companies.
When To Hire a Personal Injury Attorney
While not every case requires an attorney, getting professional help is often a good idea. Insurance companies want to pay as little as possible. A lawyer can protect your interests, handle communications, and negotiate a fair settlement. They can also advise when it might be wise to take the case to court if the insurance company refuses to provide a reasonable offer.
Most personal injury attorneys in St. Louis, MO, offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless they recover compensation for you. This setup lets you access legal help without worrying about upfront costs.
A St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You Obtain a Fair Settlement
There is no simple “average” personal injury settlement amount that applies to all cases. Each claim is unique, shaped by details like injuries, fault, and costs. Instead of focusing on a specific number, consider the factors that influence settlement amounts. Make sure you understand your damages, gather evidence, and consider seeking professional legal help.
With careful preparation and a clear plan, you can pursue a settlement that fairly compensates you for both financial and personal losses. While the process may take time, staying informed and proactive can help lead to a result that meets your needs.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer at Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers Today
If you were injured in an accident in St. Louis due to someone else’s careless or negligent actions, contact an experienced St. Louis personal injury lawyer to discuss your case. Your attorney will fight for fair compensation, and they don’t get paid unless you win.
For more information, contact the attorneys at Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers we proudly serve all throughout Missouri, including St. Louis County, and we have offices in St. Louis, Chesterfield, Clayton, and Creve Coeur.
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – St. Louis Office
1010 Market Street, Suite 1605
St. Louis, Missouri
(636) 519-0085
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Chesterfield Office
400 Chesterfield Center Suite 400
Chesterfield, MO 63017
(636) 999-9587
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Creve Coeur Office
11628 Old Ballas Rd, Suite 320
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
(314) 557-2869
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Clayton Office
7733 Forsyth Blvd, Suite 1100
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 804-4569
