- Car Accidents
If you’ve found yourself in a car accident in Atlanta, you might be wondering about the average settlement you could expect from your claim. The car accident settlement you receive will allow you to move on from the unfortunate incident.
Average Settlement Amounts for Different Types of Car Accidents
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average settlement for a car accident is between $20,000 and $25,000. Settlement amounts can vary significantly based on the specifics of the accident, including the following.
Type of Accident
The most common car accidents are rear-end collisions, sideswipes, and head-on collisions. Head-on collisions typically result in the highest settlement amounts due to the increased likelihood of severe injuries. Sideswipes and rear-end collisions, while still disruptive, usually result in lower settlements.
Injuries Sustained
More serious injuries like broken bones, head trauma, or spinal cord damage generally warrant higher settlement amounts. Soft tissue injuries like whiplash or muscle strains are less severe and correspond with lower settlements.
Fatal accidents where a family member was lost obviously warrant the highest settlements.
Fault and Liability
Settlements tend to be higher when the other driver is demonstrably at fault, especially if drugs, alcohol, or reckless behavior were involved. If liability is unclear or shared between drivers, settlement amounts are often lower. Police reports, eyewitness accounts, and other evidence can help establish fault and strengthen a plaintiff’s case.
Factors in Car Accident Settlement Amounts in Atlanta
Key factors that determine average car accident settlement amounts in Atlanta are the nature and severity of injuries, experience of legal counsel, insurance policy limits, and willingness of insurers to settle.
Severity Of Injuries
More serious injuries like broken bones, head trauma, or permanent disabilities typically result in higher settlements than minor soft tissue injuries. Medical records, bills, and testimony from physicians provide evidence to determine appropriate compensation.
Location of the Accident
Collisions occurring in high-traffic areas or due to poor road conditions may increase settlement offers. Eyewitness statements and police reports can help establish fault and liability.
Experience of Legal Representation
Seasoned car accident attorneys know how to negotiate maximum settlement amounts based on the circumstances of the case. They can determine reasonable sums for pain and suffering as well as other non-economic damages.
Insurance Companies
In some situations, the at-fault party’s insurance coverage limits the settlement amount. Although policy limits do not necessarily reflect the full value of a claim, they represent the maximum amount available for compensation.
The willingness of insurance companies to settle out of court is another factor. Most prefer to settle to avoid further legal costs. However, they aim to settle for as little as possible. Aggressive negotiation by a skilled car accident lawyer is often required to obtain fair compensation within policy limits.
With the help of a reputable law firm, victims of motor vehicle collisions in Atlanta can maximize their settlement offers and recover damages to which they are legally entitled.
How an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Can Help Maximize Your Settlement
An experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer can help maximize the settlement for clients who have been in a collision. By negotiating with insurance companies and pursuing litigation if necessary, attorneys aim to recover the maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Knowledge of Relevant Laws and Statutes
Attorneys who specialize in auto accident law understand the statutes of limitations, negligence laws, and other regulations in Georgia that govern car crash cases. They can determine who is at fault, evaluate police and medical reports, and take appropriate action within the mandated time limits.
Experience Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance providers may offer a quick settlement that does not fully cover the costs and effects of an accident. Skilled lawyers have experience negotiating higher settlement amounts that accurately reflect the severity of injuries and other losses. They can counter the tactics used by insurance companies to minimize payouts.
Willingness to Go to Trial
If an adequate settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, a lawyer will represent the client in civil court. They can gather witness testimony, present evidence, and argue before a judge and jury to obtain a fair verdict and monetary damages award. The threat of litigation alone may motivate an insurance company to offer a more reasonable settlement.
Ability to Determine Appropriate Compensation
Lawyers understand how to calculate the financial losses resulting from an auto collision, including medical bills, lost income, reduced earning capacity, and pain and suffering. They can obtain records and documentation to substantiate claims and will work to recover both economic and non-economic damages for the client. Their experience and expertise play a key role in obtaining maximum compensation.
Understanding Georgia’s negligence laws and working with an experienced car accident attorney are the keys to achieving a fair settlement. While no amount of money can undo the harm caused by a serious accident, a reasonable settlement can help cover your expenses.
Contact the Bethune Law Firm at 1-800-INJURED to get the legal representation you deserve.
