What is the Average Settlement in a Pedestrian Accident Case
When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the aftermath can be devastating. Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries, significant financial burdens, and emotional distress. One of the most common questions victims have is: What can I expect as a settlement in my pedestrian accident case? While every case is unique, understanding the factors that influence settlement amounts can help set realistic expectations.
Factors That Affect Settlement Amounts
The “average” settlement for a pedestrian accident case can vary widely based on several key factors. These factors include:
- Severity of Injuries
Settlement amounts often correlate directly with the extent of injuries. Cases involving catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or amputations typically yield higher compensation than cases involving minor injuries. - Medical Expenses
Medical bills play a significant role in determining settlement amounts. This includes both past medical expenses and anticipated future costs, such as ongoing therapy or surgeries. - Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity
If your accident prevents you from working, you may recover lost wages. In severe cases, the settlement may include compensation for diminished earning capacity. - Pain and Suffering
Non-economic damages, such as emotional distress and loss of quality of life, are more subjective but often constitute a significant portion of the settlement. - Degree of Fault
If the pedestrian was partially at fault—for instance, by jaywalking or ignoring traffic signals—this may reduce the settlement amount under comparative negligence laws. - Insurance Policy Limits
The at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits can cap the amount of compensation available, regardless of the victim’s damages. - Evidence and Witness Testimonies
Strong evidence, including surveillance footage, police reports, and credible witness accounts, can strengthen a claim and lead to a higher settlement.
Typical Settlement Ranges
In the context of the severity of the injury in a pedestrian accident case, you can most likely expect settlement amounts in the following ranges:
- Minor injuries: $10,000–$50,000
- Moderate injuries: $50,000–$200,000
- Severe or catastrophic injuries: $500,000 or more
These ranges are general estimates and can vary by jurisdiction, case specifics, and negotiation strength.
Maximizing Your Settlement
To help ensure fair compensation, accident victims should:
- Seek immediate medical attention and document their injuries,
- Consult an experienced personal injury attorney to handle negotiations and legal complexities, and
- Avoid quick settlement offers from insurance companies, which may undervalue your claim.
Final Thoughts
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what the “average” settlement is, understanding the influencing factors can help victims better navigate the legal process.
Each pedestrian accident case is unique, so working with an attorney who can tailor their approach to your circumstances is crucial.
Contact Justice Through Compensation for Help
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident, please know that the law firm of Justice Through Compensation is here to help. Our legal team is skilled, experienced, and passionate in their representation. Let us shoulder the burden of an injury claim or lawsuit while you focus on healing from your injuries. Contact us today for the quality legal help you deserve.