If you have been injured in a car accident in Washington, you are likely wondering how much your case may settle for. The reality is that there is no single “average” settlement for every case. Instead, settlements vary widely, and the value of your potential settlement will depend on your injuries and other factors.
Here is what you need to know.
Average Settlement Amounts in Washington
Car accident settlements in Washington can range from a few thousand dollars to millions, depending on the seriousness of your injuries. Here are some standard settlement ranges for cases from across the state:
- Minor injuries involving whiplash, sprains, and soft tissue injuries typically draw settlements between $1,000 and $15,000.
- Moderate injuries involving broken bones, herniated discs, or more serious treatment typically draw settlements between $15,000 and $40,000.
- Severe injuries involving concussion, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or permanent disability typically draw settlements between $100,000 and $1 million.
The more serious your injuries, the higher your potential recovery may be. The best way to understand what your case is worth is to consult with an experienced car accident lawyer.
What Factors May Affect My Settlement?
Every accident case is unique. Several factors determine whether your claim settles for a modest amount or a much larger figure. Factors that may influence the value of your claim include:
- Medical expenses: The cost of emergency treatment, hospital stays, physical therapy, surgeries, or long-term care is often the most significant driver of settlement value. The more extensive your medical needs, the higher your settlement may be.
- Long-term effects of your injuries: Your settlement will typically be higher if your accident caused permanent disability, disfigurement, or a need for lifelong care.
- Lost income and earning capacity: Your settlement value may increase if you missed work or could not perform your job. In severe cases, settlements can also include a reduced earning capacity if you can no longer work in your chosen career.
- Pain and suffering: Pain and suffering cover the emotional toll of an accident. This can include chronic pain, stress, and depression. The emotional impact of injuries can increase the value of a settlement.
- Insurance policy limits: Washington law only requires drivers to carry $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in bodily injury liability coverage. Unfortunately, serious accidents often cost much more. You may need to turn to your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) to recover additional compensation if the at-fault driver does not have enough coverage.
- Fault and negligence: Washington follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means your share of fault for an accident reduces your compensation proportionally. For example, if you found 30 percent responsible for the crash, you can typically recover just 70 percent of your damages.
- Strength of evidence: The quality of your evidence, such as medical records, police reports, photos, and witness statements, can significantly affect your settlement. Strong evidence makes it harder for insurance companies to deny or minimize your claim.
All these factors interact to determine the overall value of a car accident settlement. An experienced lawyer can evaluate these details and ensure nothing is left out when fighting for your compensation.
How a Lawyer Can Help You Get a Fair Settlement
Insurance companies may offer you a settlement that is far less than what your case is worth. A Seattle car accident lawyer can help you:
- Builds your case by gathering accident reports, medical records, and witness statements.
- Calculates damages to include medical bills, lost wages, and long-term needs.
- Negotiates with insurers to challenge low offers and protect your rights.
- Goes to court if needed to fight for maximum compensation.
Working with a lawyer means you do not have to face insurance companies alone. Instead, you can focus on your recovery while a lawyer works to maximize your settlement.
Injured in a Car Accident? Help Is Available.
Car accident settlements in Washington can range from just a few thousand dollars to millions, depending on the facts. If you have been injured in a car accident, do not rely on averages alone. The best way to understand the value of your claim is to talk with a Seattle personal injury lawyer and learn what they can do for you.
To learn more, contact Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team.
Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer – Seattle
701 5th Ave Suite 4300A, Seattle, WA 98104
(253) 948-0250
Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer – Tacoma
909 A St Ste 700, Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 264-0225