What Is the Average Settlement for a Texas Car Crash?

Car accidents can be devastating, causing physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Texas, you may wonder what the average settlement amount is and how you can secure the compensation you deserve. 

While each case is unique, and the settlement amount will vary depending on several factors, understanding the average Texas car accident settlement can provide you with a general idea of what to expect.

Understanding Car Accident Settlements

A car accident settlement is an agreement reached between the parties involved in a car accident to resolve their legal claims without going to trial. 

The settlement amount is determined based on the damages suffered by the injured party. It is intended to compensate for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related losses.

Average Car Accident Settlement Amounts in Texas

While it is difficult to provide an exact average car accident settlement amount for Texas due to the unique nature of each case, some statistics can provide some insight. 

According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average car accident settlement for claims with bodily injury in 2022 was $22,734 in Texas, higher than the national average of $19,691 in 2021. Claims for property damage alone averaged $5,314 in 2022.

It’s important to note that these averages are based on reported settlements and may not reflect the full range of settlement amounts. Every case is different, and the specific circumstances of your accident will ultimately determine the settlement amount.

Factors Affecting Car Accident Settlements in Texas

The average car accident settlement amount in Texas is influenced by various factors, including:

• Severity of Injuries: The severity of your injuries plays a significant role in determining the settlement amount. More severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation will likely result in higher settlements.
• Property Damage: The extent of property damage, including damage to your vehicle and other personal belongings, is considered when calculating the settlement amount. The cost of repairs or replacement of the damaged property will be factored into the settlement.
• Medical Expenses: The total medical expenses incurred as a result of the car accident, including hospital bills, doctor’s fees, medication, and rehabilitation costs, will be taken into account when determining the settlement amount. Future medical expenses may also be considered if ongoing treatment or care is required.
• Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: If the car accident caused you to miss work, resulting in lost wages, the settlement amount may include compensation for these financial losses. Additionally, if your injuries impact your ability to earn a living, the settlement may account for the loss of earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Pain and suffering damages are non-economic damages awarded to compensate for the physical and emotional pain, discomfort, and distress caused by the car accident and resulting injuries. These damages are subjective and can vary greatly depending on the circumstances of the case.
• Insurance Coverage: The at-fault party’s insurance coverage plays a role in determining the settlement amount. If the at-fault party has sufficient insurance coverage, it may be easier to secure a higher settlement. However, if the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, obtaining full compensation may be more challenging.
• Comparative Negligence: Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your settlement amount may be reduced. The percentage of fault assigned to each party will determine the extent to which the settlement is diminished.
• Legal Representation: Having an experienced car accident attorney by your side can greatly impact the settlement amount. A skilled attorney will advocate for your rights, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation.

Factors That May Diminish Settlement Amounts

When pursuing a car accident claim in Texas, you must be aware of the various factors that can potentially diminish the settlement amount you might receive. While the goal is to secure fair compensation for your losses, certain circumstances can impact the final payout. Some of these factors include but are not limited to:

• Delayed Medical Treatment: Insurance companies might argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as claimed if you delayed seeking medical treatment after the accident. This could result in a reduced settlement offer.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Insurance adjusters might contend that some of your injuries were pre-existing and not entirely a result of the accident. This could lead to a decrease in the portion of the settlement attributed to those particular injuries.
• Lack of Documentation: Insufficient or inconsistent medical records, police reports, or accident evidence can give the insurance company leverage to offer a lower settlement.
• Inadequate Evidence: If you can’t provide strong evidence linking the other party’s negligence to your injuries, the insurance company might dispute your claim, leading to a smaller settlement.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists: If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your insurance coverage might come into play. However, the limits of your policy could be lower than you anticipate, affecting your potential settlement.
• Gap in Treatment: If you have gaps in your medical treatment, the insurance company could argue that your injuries improved during those periods, potentially leading to a reduced settlement offer.
• Subrogation: If your health insurance company covers your medical expenses and later seeks reimbursement from your settlement, the amount you ultimately receive might be lower.

Navigating these factors and securing a fair settlement can be complex. To optimize your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve, it’s advisable to consult with an experienced Texas car accident attorney. They can assess your case, handle negotiations, and ensure your rights are protected.

Seeking Legal Assistance for Your Car Accident Settlement

Navigating the legal process and securing a fair car accident settlement can be complex and overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries and other challenges. Consulting with a reputable Beaumont, TX, car accident lawyer is crucial to protecting your rights and maximizing your potential settlement.

At Brent Coon and Associates, we will evaluate the unique details of your case, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, gather supporting evidence, and provide expert guidance throughout the process. We will work diligently to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, damages, and losses.

Call us today at (409) 222-2222 for a free consultation.