If you’re injured at work, in a car accident, or by some other means, your first thought is probably about your recovery. Will you be out of work, and if so, how long? Will you be able to cover your medical bills and pay your mortgage or rent?
While these concerns are valid, you shouldn’t have to worry about finances when you’re injured, especially if someone else is responsible for your accident. A personal injury settlement can go a long way in helping you pay for medical treatments and provide for your needs until you return to work.
What Is a Personal Injury Settlement?
A personal injury lawsuit may be filed when a person is injured by the actions — or lack of action — of another individual or entity. For example, if a store owner fails to clean up a spill, causing you to slip and fall and break an arm, you might decide to file a lawsuit against the store.
Instead of taking the case to court for a judge or jury to decide the outcome, though, you could accept a settlement from the store owner’s insurance company. Georgia law follows the modified comparative fault rule, meaning when a person is injured in an accident, any financial award they receive will be decreased if they are found to be partially at fault for the incident.
For instance, if a driver hits your car while running a stop light, but you did not avoid the accident because you were texting, it might be concluded that you are 20% at fault. Any award would then be reduced by 20%
However, accepting a settlement may or may not work to the plaintiff’s advantage. It’s possible that a jury would award you more than an insurance company is willing to offer. However, a jury could also find that you are 50% responsible for the accident and award you nothing.
Many people opt to accept a settlement because it is faster and less complicated than going through a court trial where they might not prevail. Working with a personal injury attorney who is skilled at settlement negotiation can help you get a fair and generous settlement.
The Average Personal Injury Settlement
Many factors are considered when deciding the amount of a personal injury settlement. The type and severity of an injury, the cost of going to court, the pain and suffering of the plaintiff, and the privacy needs of the defendant can all influence the size of a settlement offer.
No two cases are the same. According to Forbes Advisor, about half of all personal injury plaintiffs receive $24,000 or less. This number can vary significantly, however.
Other averages based on case type include:
- Medical Malpractice: $679,000
- Product Liability: $748,000
- Premises Liability: $90,000
Additionally, the median award for car accident cases is $16,000. No matter the case type, a personal injury lawyer plays a vital role in the final award amount.
A personal injury attorney uses their experience to fight for fair compensation. Depending on your injury, you could be facing months of unemployment and medical treatment or even permanent disability. Agreeing to a settlement without legal representation can put you at a disadvantage.
Have You Been Injured In an Accident In Georgia?
If you’ve been injured in the workplace or any other type of accident in Georgia, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident, you may be offered more or less than the average settlement. For the best outcome, working with an attorney dedicated to fighting on your behalf is essential.