The amount a rear-end collision victim secures varies from one accident to another. Read on to learn more about why this happens and how you would value your losses.
The average settlement for rear-end collisions will most likely vary from one accident to another, based on a variety of different circumstances. As each accident is unique with its own specific details, it is difficult to determine an average because there are too many variables involved. It is important to know that insurance companies play a major role in how settlements are achieved. Therefore, it is necessary to understand how settlements are added up.
Additionally, the expenses you have incurred due to your injuries, as well as the projected amount you will be expected to pay for your ongoing treatment, will all come under examination for your case.
What You Can Do to Retain a Settlement After a Car Accident
If you have been in a car accident and have suffered injuries, you are most likely interested in understanding what your options for filing a claim may be and what you may be able to expect in doing so. This is certainly a valid inquiry because if you were injured mostly due to another party’s negligence or breach of their duty of care, you should not be liable for the expenses related to your injuries and recovery.
Keep in mind, however, if the other driver’s insurance company is attempting to settle for a value you feel is less than you deserve or does not cover the actual value of your losses, you are not obligated to settle. Sometimes, it may be tempting to just take what they offer, but it may not be in your best interest.
In this regard, discussing your case with a legal representative may prove helpful. They may be able to provide insight into what a fair settlement for your injuries and losses may be.
How a Lawyer Can Help Pursue a Fair Settlement
Rear-end accidents are unfortunately common and can be dangerous. In 2017, there were 2,456 fatal rear-end collisions in the US, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III). This accounted for 7.2% of all fatal accidents. While your accident may not have resulted in fatalities, this data indicates the risk for serious injuries in rear-end car accidents.
If you were in a car accident and you were injured, managing your recovery is the most important hurdle that you should be focused on. Depending on your injuries, you may be dealing with ongoing treatment, physical therapy, regular visits with physicians and/ or chiropractors. You might have also had surgery, and it may be a long time before your life is back to normal.
Managing a legal claim on your own at this time may be difficult and excessively time-consuming. Therefore, working with an attorney may be an option to help make the process easier.
Some reasons to work with a lawyer for your personal injury claim include the following points:
- Your lawyer and their team can assess the specific details of your case to determine the value of your case based on your injuries, the total cost of these injuries (in regards to your medical treatment and how much you’ve had to pay out of pocket), and what the future expenses may entail.
- Your lawyer will represent you throughout the process and work diligently to ensure that your rights are upheld and that you are awarded the compensation you deserve. Additionally, many lawyers offer their clients the ability to receive their services and representation without paying upfront fees, only charging payment once a settlement is achieved.
- Your attorney will work hard to ensure the driver of the other vehicle is held responsible for their negligence that caused the accident, thereby resulting in your injuries, loss of income, and property damage.
- Your lawyer will work directly with the insurance company to negotiate on your behalf for a fair settlement that takes your losses into account.
- Your attorney and their team will manage all the details of your case, which frees up time and effort for your recovery. After experiencing the trauma of an accident and subsequent injuries, you should be able to dedicate your time to healing, not managing a legal case.
Awards You May Qualify for After a Rear-End Car Accident
If your rear-end accident occurred primarily due to the other driver’s fault, you should not be responsible for the expenses you have taken on. Depending on your injuries and other losses, the types of financial awards you may be able to receive include:
- Awards for your medical costs related to your injuries, as well as your future medical needs;
- Awards for your time missed at work and any lost capacity to continue to work at your previous level; and
- Awards for emotional damage, such as pain and suffering due to your injuries.
Be Aware of the Statute of Limitations in Florida
If you are considering your options for filing a claim for compensation after you have been injured in a rear-end accident, it is important to know there is a statute of limitations in Florida. According to Florida Statutes §95.11, you have a window of four years to file a lawsuit after an accident. Failing to do so within this period may harm your chances to receive the compensation you deserve after an accident that was not your fault.
Contact Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers Today so We Can Get Started
To learn more about the potential of your case, or to learn more about the average settlement value for rear-end collisions, reach out to the professional legal team of Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers today at (954) 476-1000.
