What Is the Average Settlement for an Arizona Car Accident?
Attorney Byron Browne will fight for maximum compensation
Arizona is a “fault” state for car accidents. That means the party responsible for causing the accident is responsible for paying damages. Most car accident claims are resolved through a settlement. It’s a pretty routine outcome after a collision. But how can you be sure that agreeing to a settlement is the best decision?
Attorney Byron Browne of Browne Law Group knows the impact a car accident can have on victims and their families. Victims are left in physical pain and the entire family can feel financial stress as medical expenses add up. Byron Browne fights for the injured in Arizona and is committed to helping them recover the compensation they deserve.
What is a car accident settlement?
It is a resolution reached between parties involved in a car accident about compensation for damages or injuries. A car accident settlement is a legal agreement that typically involves the at-fault party or their insurance company agreeing to pay a certain amount of money to the injured party (or parties) in exchange for releasing them from further legal action related to the accident.
Once a case is settled, that’s the end of it. You can’t go back later and ask for more money. That’s why it’s important to get legal advice before agreeing to any settlement with the insurance company. An attorney can make sure that the compensation you will receive in the settlement is fair.
What is the average settlement for a car accident?
You may hear different numbers thrown out there. Some may say the average car accident settlement is $15,000. Others may put it at $20,000 or even higher. Still others may claim the average is $5000 for minor injuries and $100,000 or more for cases involving serious injury.
But the truth is it’s very difficult to come up with an average. The circumstances of each car accident are unique. Your accident could be worth more than another car accident that was similar. Or it could be worth less. There are so many factors that can affect the final outcome that these “averages” aren’t very useful in determining the resolution of your case.
What factors can affect the amount of a settlement?
The amount of a car accident settlement can be influenced by:
- Severity of injuries – The extent and severity of injuries sustained in the accident play a significant role. More severe injuries often result in higher settlements.
- Medical expenses – This refers to the total medical costs incurred for the treatment of injuries – now and in the future – including but not limited to hospital stays, surgeries, medication, therapy, and ongoing medical care.
- Lost wages – Income lost due to missed workdays or reduced earning capacity resulting from the accident is another example of damages suffered in a crash.
- Property damage – These refer to costs associated with repairing or replacing damaged vehicles and personal property.
- Pain and suffering – Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life, are often considered.
- Liability and comparative negligence – The determination of fault or liability for the accident can influence settlement negotiations.
- Insurance policy limits – The at-fault party’s insurance policy limits can cap the maximum amount available for settlement.
Byron Browne is focused on getting the results that are right for you and the injuries you suffered.
Who decides how much my car accident settlement will be?
Insurance companies are the primary players in determining settlement amounts. Their adjusters assess the damages and can make a settlement offer to resolve your claim. The problem is that their initial offer typically falls far short of covering all of the damages you actually suffered in the accident.
But you can, and should, ask for more money. The final settlement amount is usually negotiated. Negotiations may involve back-and-forth communication between your legal representative and the insurance company. There can be a great deal of discussion until a mutually agreeable settlement amount is reached.
Should I accept a settlement or file a lawsuit?
This is a decision that you should only make after consulting an experienced car accident lawyer. Your attorney can discuss your legal options and give you an idea of how much you can expect from a settlement and what could happen if you decide to file a lawsuit. It’s important to have the information you need before making a final decision.
Get the Anti-Lawyer Lawyer on your side.
Insurance companies have the advantage when you’ve been hurt in a car accident, and they know it. They handle accident claims every day. Their adjusters are trained to use many different tactics designed to downplay your injuries and encourage you to settle for less than you deserve.
Attorney Byron Browne does not put with their B.S. Our team investigates your accident. We build a strong case for compensation. Byron Browne takes a tough stance in negotiations until a settlement is reached that meets your needs.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Gilbert or anywhere in Maricopa County, we can help. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.