Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers | July 10, 2025 | Personal Injury
If you’ve been injured in an accident, one of the first questions that may come to mind is: How much is my personal injury case worth? Many people are curious about the typical settlement amounts in personal injury cases. They wonder what kind of compensation they can expect to recover.
While every case is unique, understanding the factors that influence settlement values can help set realistic expectations. This article will help provide insight into how personal injury settlements are determined, the factors that influence the amount, and what you might be entitled to after an injury.
Why Is There No Set Average Settlement Amount?
It’s important to note that there is no “average” settlement amount for personal injury claims. The compensation you may receive depends on several factors unique to your case. While it’s difficult to pinpoint a precise “average” for personal injury settlements, understanding what influences your settlement can help you navigate the process with confidence.
Factors like the nature of the injury, how severe it is, the impact it has on your life, and the degree of fault play significant roles in determining settlement value. Every accident and injury situation is different.
That’s why it is essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can provide you with a more accurate assessment based on your specific circumstances.
Factors That Influence Personal Injury Settlements
Personal injury settlements can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors. Below are some of the key elements that impact settlement values:
Severity of Injuries
One of the most important factors in determining the value of your settlement is the severity of your injuries. The more serious the injury, the higher the potential value. For example:
- Catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or permanent disabilities often lead to larger settlements because they require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and can result in permanent loss of quality of life.
- Minor injuries that require minimal medical treatment, such as sprains or cuts, may result in smaller settlements.
The severity of your injuries will also determine the future medical expenses, your ability to work, and the level of pain and suffering you endure. All of these contribute to your settlement amount.
Medical Expenses
Medical expenses are a major factor in any personal injury case. These expenses can include:
- Hospital bills
- Surgery costs
- Doctor’s appointments
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Both past and future medical costs are considered when determining the settlement amount. The more extensive your medical treatment is, the higher your settlement is likely to be.
Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
If your injury caused you to miss work, you may be entitled to compensation for the wages you lost while recovering. Additionally, if your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job or limits your future earning potential, you may be entitled to compensation for diminished earning capacity.
For many, lost wages and the impact on their future career can significantly increase the settlement amount. This is particularly the case if the injury results in long-term or permanent disability.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering refers to the physical and emotional distress caused by your injury. While it is difficult to quantify pain and suffering in monetary terms, it is a key factor in many personal injury settlements. Pain and suffering may include:
- The immediate pain and discomfort caused by the injury
- Long-term physical pain, including chronic pain
- Emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma
- Loss of quality of life, especially if the injury limits your ability to engage in activities you once enjoyed
In Ohio, the courts allow for compensation for pain and suffering. This can be a substantial amount depending on the extent of the injury and its impact on your life.
Degree of Fault
Ohio follows a modified comparative negligence rule when determining liability in personal injury cases. This means that your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident. However, as long as you are less than 51% responsible, you can still recover compensation. However, it will be adjusted according to your percentage of fault.
For example, if your total damages are $100,000, but you are found to be 25% at fault, your settlement would be reduced by 25%. This would leave you with a recovery of $75,000. If you are 51% or more responsible, you won’t be able to recover at all.
Insurance Coverage
The amount of insurance coverage available plays a critical role in the settlement amount. In Ohio, drivers are required to carry liability insurance coverage. However, the minimum coverage may not be enough to cover substantial injuries. If the at-fault party’s insurance is inadequate or if they are uninsured, your own insurance policy (underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage) could be used to pursue additional compensation.
What Damages Are Available To Personal Injury Victims in Ohio?
In Ohio, personal injury victims can pursue several types of damages, including:
- Economic damages: These are compensatory damages that include medical expenses, lost wages, and any other financial losses caused by the injury.
- Non-economic damages: These damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are intended to punish the at-fault party for bad behavior and deter others from engaging in misconduct in the future.
It’s essential to work with an experienced personal injury lawyer to get help determining the types of damages you can pursue. This will ensure you are seeking every available avenue for compensation under the law.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in an accident and are wondering how much your case is worth, contact a personal injury law firm for a free consultation. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand the value of your case, guide you through the legal process, and work to secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers today and let us handle the legal details while you focus on your health and recovery.
For more information, contact the Sandusky personal injury law firm of Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation.
We have five convenient locations in Ohio: Sandusky, Mansfield, Port Clinton, Vermilion, Norwalk, and Huron.
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Sandusky
502 W Washington St,
Sandusky, OH 44870
(419) 625-7770
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers– Mansfield
6 W 3rd St Suite 200 B,
Mansfield, OH 44902
(419) 910-2605
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Port Clinton
132 Madison St,
Port Clinton, OH 43452
(419) 871-3995
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Vermilion
1513 State Rd,
Vermilion, OH 44089
(440) 967-6136
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Norwalk
13 Whittlesey Ave,
Norwalk, OH 44857
(419) 863-5922
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Huron
202 Cleveland Rd W unit 1
Huron, OH 44839
(419) 827-5884