Have you been in a car accident and are unsure what to expect from the settlement process? You’re not alone. Car accident settlements can feel shrouded in mystery, leaving many victims wondering how much they’ll receive. The truth is, there’s more to the equation than just medical bills and car damage. 

In this article, we’ll take you beyond the surface level and reveal the hidden factors that can significantly impact your car accident settlement. 

Severity of Injuries and Medical Expenses

A crucial factor influencing settlements is the severity of your injuries and the resulting medical expenses.

According to USA Today, 6,102,936 vehicle accidents were reported to police in the United States in 2021. Although the fatality rate was very low, 39508 fatal accidents were among these. The remaining accidents caused different levels of injuries to the drivers and passengers. 

Injuries can range from minor cuts and sprains to life-threatening trauma requiring extensive hospitalization and rehabilitation. In the worst cases, accidents can be fatal.

Medical expenses directly correlate with injury severity. A minor injury might require a single visit to the doctor. A serious injury could involve ambulance rides, surgery, specialist consultations, physical therapy, and medication – all accumulating significant costs. Documenting all medical bills is essential for any personal injury claim. 

Contributory Negligence and Comparative Fault

Contributory negligence refers to a situation where you, the injured party, are found to be partially at fault for the accident. This can drastically reduce your settlement amount or even bar you from receiving compensation, depending on the state’s laws. For example, if you are found to be 50% guilty in a contributory negligence state, you will not be eligible for any compensation.

In comparative fault, the percentage of fault assigned to each party involved in the accident determines the amount of compensation they receive. For instance, if you are found guilty of 20% of a collision in a comparative fault state, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.

However, comparative fault offers a more favorable scenario than contributory negligence, where you might receive nothing.

Evidence and Documentation

Beyond the standard police report and medical records, strong evidence and documentation can significantly boost your car accident settlement. Look for footage from traffic cameras, dash cams in nearby vehicles, or even doorbell cameras from houses facing the accident scene. Social media posts depicting the accident’s aftermath or road conditions can also be valuable.

Witness statements, especially from bystanders who may have a neutral perspective, can be crucial in establishing fault. Even seemingly minor details like receipts for car rentals or weather reports documenting rain or fog can add weight to your claim. 

Remember, the more comprehensive your evidence and documentation, the stronger your case appears to the claims adjuster, potentially leading to a more handsome settlement.

The Power of Hiring a Local Attorney

While navigating a car accident settlement can be tempting to tackle yourself, there’s a hidden power in hiring a local attorney. Local attorneys understand the intricacies of your state’s laws, including specific regulations regarding car accidents, contributory negligence, and damage caps. 

For instance, as reported by KATV, a person was found dead in a traffic collision in Little Rock, Arkansas. The accident occurred on 5th December 2023 near Mitchell Drive and Geyer Springs Road intersection at around 6 pm. In any such incident, a Little Rock personal injury lawyer would help claim and receive compensation. 

According to Keith Law Group, local attorneys are familiar with local judges, court procedures, and the tactics employed by the defendants in your area. This insider knowledge allows them to strategically negotiate for a fairer settlement and fight for your rights effectively. 

Timeliness of Legal Action

Don’t let time be your enemy. Statutes of limitations vary by state and dictate the timeframe within which you can file a lawsuit. Initiating the legal process promptly demonstrates seriousness and allows your attorney to gather fresh evidence. You won’t be eligible for any compensation after this time passes.

According to Forbes, the clock of the statute of limitations starts on the same day of the incident that injured you. In most states, it is two years; in some states like Arkansas and the District of Columbia, it is three years. Remember, the sooner you take action, the stronger your position and the more leverage you have in securing a just settlement.

A timely legal claim puts pressure on the defendant’s advocates to settle fairly, knowing you’re prepared to take the case to court if necessary.

Emotional and Psychological Factors

Car accidents can leave lasting emotional and psychological scars. Anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common after accidents, impacting your daily life, relationships, and ability to work. Don’t underestimate the impact these struggles have on your claim. 

Seek professional help to document your emotional and psychological suffering. Therapy records and medical evaluations can strengthen your compensation claims for pain and suffering. By acknowledging the emotional toll of the accident, you ensure you’re not just compensated for physical injuries but also for the unseen wounds.

Prior Settlements and Legal Precedents

Prior settlements and legal precedents can play a surprising role in your car accident settlement. It is important to consider prior settlements of your attorney because settlement is the ultimate thing you would want. 

According to The Law Dictionary, very few plaintiffs want to take their case for a trial. Out of all the personal injury cases, only 4% to 5% of cases go all the way to trial. This means 95% of personal injury lawsuits are settled outside the court between both parties.

Your attorney will research similar past cases in your jurisdiction with comparable injuries and circumstances. These serve as a benchmark for fair compensation. If past settlements in similar cases resulted in significant awards, it strengthens your argument for a higher settlement.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do injury severity and fault impact car accident settlements?

The severity of your injuries and the degree of fault you hold in the accident are major factors affecting your car accident settlement. More serious injuries and less fault on your part typically lead to a higher settlement amount.

What role does a local attorney play in car accident settlements?

A local attorney in car accident settlements acts as your advocate. They use their knowledge of local laws to negotiate a better settlement, fight for your rights, and guide you through the legal process.

How does fault allocation impact settlement negotiations?

Fault allocation is a big deal in settlement talks. The more faults you’re assigned, the less compensation you’ll likely receive. 

To conclude, car accidents can be overwhelming, but understanding the hidden factors that influence settlements empowers you to navigate the process more effectively. Remember, a car accident settlement isn’t just about car repairs and medical bills. It’s about recouping what you’ve lost and ensuring a smoother path to recovery, physically, emotionally, and financially.