The Average Claim Size From an Auto Accident

The size of an auto injury claim depends upon a variety of factors.

Although the law on and procedures relating to automobile accident claims vary from state to state, similar factors will determine the size of those claims in terms of monetary damages recovered by the plaintiff.

Type of Injury

As a general rule, "soft-tissue injuries" such as neck and back strain---whiplash injuries---will bring less money than cases involving broken bones, bloody wounds and permanent disfigurement. A litigant can expect less compensation for any accident that allows him to walk away from the wreck.

Medical Bills and Lost Wages

Costs incurred for the treatment of injuries and time missed from work can influence the size of a claim. Although not a definitive indicator in every case, higher medical bills and higher lost wages will generally translate into a larger claim if the treatment and missed time are reasonable in relation to the injury and if the facts of the case support the defendant's liability.

Case Facts

Even in cases of serious injury and high damages, the plaintiff must establish the defendant's liability in the accident. Negligent behavior by the plaintiff in connection with the accident itself or failing to follow a doctor's orders in the treatment of an injury may result in minimization or outright denial of an injury claim.

References

• Article Snatch: Factors in Personal Injury Claim Amounts
• ClaimFriend: The Personal Injury Claims Process
• Lawfirms: Determining Liability in a Personal Injury Case