Introduction:
After a car crash, one question dominates victims’ minds: “How much money can I get?” While no lawyer can guarantee a payout, settlements typically range from $3,000 for minor injuries to $500,000+ for severe cases. Here’s how insurers calculate your claim’s value—and how to maximize it.

Key Factors That Determine Your Settlement
1. Medical Bills
– Insurers must cover ambulance fees, hospital stays, surgeries, and rehab. Keep every receipt.
– Example: A broken leg with surgery often costs $20,000–$50,000.

2. Lost Wages
– You’re owed pay for missed work (and future earnings if disabled).
– Tip: Provide pay stubs and a doctor’s note.

3. Pain & Suffering
– Subjective but critical. Severe pain can double or triple your payout.
– Lawyers use the “Multiplier Method” (1.5x–5x medical bills).

4. Property Damage
– Repairs or fair market value for totaled cars.

5. Shared Fault Rules
– In states like California, your payout drops by your % of blame. A $100k claim becomes $60k if you’re 40% at fault.

Average Settlement Amounts
– Whiplash (minor): $2,500–$10,000
– Broken bones: $20,000–$100,000
– Spinal cord injuries: $500,000–$1M+

How to Get the Highest Payout
– See a doctor immediately (delays = insurer denials).
– Never admit fault (even saying “I’m sorry” can hurt you).
– Hire a lawyer (claims with attorneys settle for 3x more on average).

Conclusion:
Don’t accept the insurer’s first offer—they lowball victims. Consult a free case evaluation with a local injury lawyer to fight for full value.