- February 27, 2024
One common question car accident victims ask is, “How much should I settle for in my car accident case?” There is no clear-cut answer or hard figure that any lawyer can give you, as cases differ and several factors influence the settlement amount. This article discusses these factors and what you must do to maximize your claim.
You can also read about some of our top car accident settlements. If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident in Michigan, the car accident lawyers at Goodman Acker, P.C., can help. Call us at 248-286-8100 to schedule a free case review.
Why choose Goodman Acker, P.C., to represent you?
Our attorneys at Goodman Acker, P.C., have decades of experience representing car accident victims. When you visit our law firm, we will carefully examine your case and the extent of your damages and estimate how much your claim is worth. We will also handle the settlement negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance company and will not settle until we achieve a favorable outcome.
Our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t owe anything until we win compensation for you. Our experience and legal knowledge give us the skill to negotiate a fair settlement. Call us at 248-286-8100 to learn more about how we can help you.
What compensation will you receive in a car accident case?
Our car accident lawyers help victims build a personal injury case to seek compensatory damages (and punitive damages when appropriate). Compensatory damages include economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages include medical bills, lost wages, future medical bills, therapies and rehabilitation services, transportation to appointments, and property damage. Non-economic compensation covers the pain and suffering, mental and emotional anguish, and loss of enjoyment of activities associated with severe injuries.
Punitive damages are sought in cases of extreme negligence or willful, fraudulent, or malicious actions causing personal injury. The purpose is to punish the defendant and to deter others from engaging in such acts. The experienced car accident lawyers at Goodman Acker, P.C., know when to pursue punitive damages depending on the details of your particular case.
What is the average car accident settlement?
Unfortunately, there's no way to give one answer to this question, as no two cases are the same. The attorneys at Goodman Acker, P.C., will consider your injuries, property damage, future medical bills, and pain and suffering to go after a fair settlement based on their experience. With over 150 years of combined experience, the Goodman Acker, P.C. team knows what to ask for in car accident claims and will do their best to ensure you get it.
What factors influence the amount of a car accident settlement?
Many factors are considered when putting together a car accident claim. You can expect a higher result if your case involves spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or wrongful death. The factors that influence a car accident settlement include:
- Who was at fault for the accident?
- Did you miss any work due to the injuries sustained in the accident?
- Did you seek medical attention immediately following the accident?
- What type of insurance does the negligent driver carry?
- Are any other insurance coverages available, such as uninsured or underinsured motorists?
- Did the negligent driver have any car insurance coverage?
- Do you have any permanent limitations or restrictions due to the injuries sustained in the accident?
- Have you experienced any pain and suffering, mental or emotional anguish, or reduction in activities you previously enjoyed?
- Are you represented by a skilled and experienced lawyer?
How long does it take to receive a car accident settlement?
Again, there’s no one answer here, as each case varies. Factors that affect the process include:
- Severity and type of injuries
- Medical prognosis
- Rehabilitation time
- Current medical needs
- Future medical needs
- Ability to return to work
- Disputed liability.
From filing a claim through discovery, you can expect the process to take up to several months. Discovery is a phase where both parties can receive documents and ask each other questions to build their case. If an agreement is reached, the process is done, and you can expect to receive timely payment, typically within 30 days of signing the Settlement Release Agreement.
Most cases take up to a year from start to settlement. Cases that involve minor children or wrongful death may take longer for a settlement. If the parties cannot agree, then a trial may be set. A trial can take over a year, and a judge and jury will decide the award. At the end of the trial, either party can appeal the decision, thus extending the time frame even further.
How to maximize your car accident settlement?
You can increase your car accident settlement by taking some steps. First, ensure you get medical treatment and attend all your follow-up appointments. Secure relevant evidence, as you need it to build a case.
The relevant evidence includes police reports, photographs, video footage, eyewitness statements, expert analysis, etc. Avoid talking to the insurance company adjuster; do not make a statement until you have a lawyer. Also, avoid posting about your case on social media, and do not sign any document without counsel.
Examples of car accident settlements with Goodman Acker, P.C.
For over 150 years, Goodman Acker, P.C. has been helping personal injury victims all over Michigan win settlements for their injuries. A few examples include:
- Oakland County auto accident $225,000
- Detroit auto accident $250,000
- Wayne County auto accident $300,000
- Macomb County auto accident $325,000
- Wayne County auto negligence $760,000
- Wayne Country auto accident $875,000
- Ann Arbor multi-vehicle accident $890,000
- Westland auto accident $1,000,000
- Wayne County auto accident $15,300,000
- Ann Arbor multi-vehicle accident $890,000
- Ann Arbor motor vehicle accident $1,900,000
The experienced car accident lawyers at Goodman Acker, P.C. seek the highest compensation for victims based on their injuries, lost wages, medical bills, and future needs. We have a 99% success rate in winning cases to maximize our client’s compensation and minimize the financial burden caused by the car accident.
Were you involved in a car accident? We can help!
If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident, contact the highly experienced team at Goodman Acker, P.C. today. We’d happily answer any questions or set you up for a free consultation. We're available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by phone at 248-286-8100. Let’s get you started on the road to compensation.