How to Calculate Car Accident Settlement?
Use our free calculator to estimate your potential car accident settlement. Learn the formula and get tips on settlement amounts.
This affects pain & suffering calculation when left blank
Economic Damages
Non-Economic Damages
Leave blank to auto-calculate based on severity (2.5x multiplier)
Calculation Breakdown:
Economic Damages: $0
Pain & Suffering: $0 (auto-calculated 2.5x multiplier)
Emotional Distress: $0
What is the Formula for Settlement Amount?
The standard formula for calculating a car accident settlement in the US is:
Total Settlement = (Economic Damages × Severity Multiplier) + Non-Economic Damages
Economic Damages Include:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages (past and future)
- Property damage (vehicle repairs)
- Other quantifiable expenses
Severity Multipliers:
- Minor injuries: 1.5x multiplier
- Moderate injuries: 2.5x multiplier
- Severe injuries: 4.0x multiplier
- Catastrophic injuries: 5.0x multiplier
Non-Economic Damages Include:
- Pain and suffering (physical and emotional)
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Loss of consortium (impact on relationships)
How Much Should I Ask for in My Settlement?
When negotiating a car accident settlement, it's important to know how much to ask for. Here's a guide:
Start with a Higher Demand
Begin negotiations with a demand that's 1.5-2x your calculated estimate. This gives you room to negotiate down while still achieving a fair settlement. Insurance companies expect this and often start with low offers.
Consider These Factors
- Policy Limits: Check the at-fault party's insurance coverage limits
- Fault Percentage: Your settlement may be reduced by your percentage of fault
- Jurisdiction: Settlement amounts vary by state and local laws
- Medical Documentation: Strong medical records support higher settlements
- Attorney Fees: Factor in legal representation costs (typically 33-40%)
Important: This calculator provides estimates only. Consult with a qualified attorney for personalized advice. Actual settlement amounts depend on many case-specific factors and should be determined by legal professionals.
How to Use This Calculator
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Enter your medical bills (hospital, doctor, treatment costs)
- Input lost wages (income lost due to the accident)
- Add property damage (vehicle repair or replacement costs)
- Estimate pain and suffering (subjective compensation)
- Adjust the multiplier (typically 1.5-3x for pain/suffering)
- Review your estimated settlement amount
Important Notes:
- This is for informational purposes only
- Actual settlements vary by case and jurisdiction
- Consult with a qualified attorney for accurate advice
- Results are estimates and not guaranteed