If you or a loved one is a DUI car accident victim in Washington, you likely want to know who will pay for your damages and injuries. Understandably, injured victims want to know what the average DUI accident settlement is. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. While we’d love to provide a definitive figure, the reality is that there is no such thing as an average settlement amount. Every case is unique, and various factors can significantly impact your claim value.
Why There Is No Average DUI Accident Settlement?
Each DUI car accident settlement is as individual as the people involved and the circumstances of the accident. Factors such as the extent of the injuries, the level of fault, the amount of available insurance, and even the skills of your legal team can all significantly impact your potential settlement. Read on to learn more about these various factors.
Factors That Can Impact the Average DUI Accident Payout
Insurance adjusters look at several key elements when determining payout from a DUI car accident. These elements include the following items:
- The severity of injury. The type and severity of your injuries are vital factors. Generally, more severe injuries result in higher medical costs, prolonged recovery periods, and potentially lasting impairments. These factors tend to contribute to larger settlements.
- Determination of liability. Establishing liability may seem straightforward in a DUI accident, but it isn’t always so. Sometimes, the other driver’s attorney or insurance company may attempt to reduce their client’s liability, ultimately affecting their offer.
- Damages incurred. The settlement also depends on the damages you’ve suffered. Damages include physical injuries, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even emotional distress.
- Available insurance coverage. The drunk driver’s insurance policy limits also play a role. Sometimes, these limits might not be enough to cover all your losses. In such scenarios, you might need to explore other avenues for compensation.
- Your legal representation. Finally, the quality of your legal representation can significantly affect your settlement. Experienced attorneys know how to build a compelling case, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight tirelessly to get the fair compensation you deserve.
Speak with a skilled lawyer at Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner PLLC to learn more about calculating the value of your case.
Maximizing Your DUI Accident Settlement
Given that there’s no average DUI accident settlement, the next question is how you can maximize your potential case value. The first step is to get prompt medical attention following an injury accident. Timely diagnosis and treatment aid your recovery and provide crucial evidence of your injuries.
Next, consider seeking legal advice. Navigating the complex landscape of insurance claims and legal proceedings can be challenging. A knowledgeable Washington car accident attorney can guide you through this process, advocating for your rights and helping you secure the best possible settlement.
Lastly, be patient. The process of obtaining a settlement can be time-consuming. It may be tempting to accept an early offer from the insurance company to speed things up, but these initial offers are often far lower than you might obtain with patience and the proper legal guidance.
Contact a Washington DUI Accident Attorney at Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner
So while it’s impossible to provide an average drunk driving accident settlement, it’s essential to remember that the primary goal is to ensure you receive adequate compensation for your injuries and other damages. At Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner, we provide the best representation possible for our clients. With more than four decades of personal injury experience, we know what it takes to build a strong case and maximize your potential settlement.
Please get in touch with our office to schedule an initial consultation to learn more about how we can assist you after a DUI car accident.
