What is the Average Car Accident Settlement in Pennsylvania?
Since every motor vehicle accident is unique, it is difficult to determine an “average” settlement. It usually depends on the types of injuries and the value of the car. However, a Pittsburgh personal injury lawyer from our firm will know a fair offer.
Our dedicated attorneys have recovered over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements for their clients. We will work hard to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
No-Fault Insurance
Pennsylvania is a choice no-fault insurance state. This means that those with no-fault insurance have their insurance company pay medical bills and lost wages– up to their policy threshold.
“Choice” refers to the fact that the motorist may decide to purchase either full tort insurance when buying a policy, or limited tort insurance, which is no-fault.
Those choosing the more expensive full tort insurance can file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver after an accident. Those with no-fault insurance can only file a lawsuit under specific circumstances.
In Pennsylvania, those circumstances include sustaining a serious injury. This must consist of a disability or disfigurement.
There are exceptions for those with no-fault insurance— when injuries were caused by a driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Also, if the accident was caused by a defect in the vehicle, the person with limited tort insurance is given full tort rights.
Economic Damages Estimate
Settlements consist of economic and non-economic damages. The former is objective and relatively easy to figure out. You can determine this by adding up the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Potential earnings
- Property damage
- Out of pocket expenses relating to the accident
Also, if you have ongoing medical treatments relating to your injury, your attorney will help you estimate those figures.
Non-economic Damages Estimate
Determining non-economic damages is more subjective. It includes categories such as pain and suffering, and loss of consortium.
How much you might receive generally depends on the extent of your injuries. Those experiencing permanent disabilities, especially when it is no longer possible to hold a job, usually receive the highest awards.
Other factors affecting non-economic damages may include:
- Disfigurement
- Length of recovery
- Partial responsibility for the collision
- Similar recent settlements
Unlike many states, Pennsylvania does not impose a cap on damages, except for claims involving government agencies.
Insurance companies and damages
A person seriously injured in a car accident can expect to hear from the insurance company. A settlement is generally offered, but do not accept it before obtaining legal counsel.
Insurance companies want to settle claims for as low an amount as possible, and once it is signed, there is no re-negotiation. However, when an attorney negotiates with an insurance company, they will fight hard, so the client receives the best settlement possible.
Contact Us Today For a Free Consultation
If you were seriously injured in a car accident due to the negligence of another motorist, a Pittsburgh Car Accident Lawyer from our team could help determine a reasonable and fair settlement offer. Fill out our online contact form or call or text us 24/7 to arrange a free consultation.
After evaluating your case, we can advise you regarding your options and estimate a fair settlement amount. We work on a contingency basis, so there is no fee unless we win your case.