Understanding the average car accident settlement in California is important for anyone involved in a collision. California car accident cases vary widely in value due to factors such as the severity of your injury, how many parties were involved, and the amount of fault for each party.
The effects of a car accident can be devastating and long-lasting, with many victims experiencing PTSD and being unable to go in a car. Knowing what to expect during the legal process can help injured parties make informed decisions about their claims.
Experienced Car Accident Attorneys in California
Thon Beck Vanni Callahan & O’Connor is a California-based law firm with extensive experience in handling car accident claims. Located in Los Angeles, our attorneys have spent decades representing injured clients. We focus on protecting your rights under California car accident laws while navigating the claim process.
We understand the extensive trauma that being in a car accident can have, along with the stress involved with trying to comprehend California’s complex legal system. Often, victims wonder if it’s even worth pursuing legal action for their pain. While this feeling is normal, it’s worth seeking legal guidance to get the justice you deserve.
In 2023, there were 27,742,348 drivers in all of California. Let our skilled team take care of the legal process so you can focus on healing. While money can’t take away what happened to you, it can ease the financial burden the accident caused. Our team is committed to helping clients pursue fair compensation.
Types of Damages Recoverable in California Car Accidents
In California, there were 4,428 traffic fatalities in 2022. Opening a claim is meant to help the victim recover financially from the harm they suffered. California law allows injury victims to seek damages from the party responsible for causing the injury. In California, the types of personal injury damages that may occur include:
- Medical bills and treatment costs
- Lost income and loss of future earning potential
- Travel expenses for doctor visits
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- In-home care and support services
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress, anxiety, and depression
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring, disfigurement, or disability
Punitive damages may also be awarded to punish intentional or reckless behavior. Unlike most damages, punitive awards are based on the conduct of the wrongdoer rather than the harm done to the victim.
The specific damages available depend on the details of the case, such as the severity of the injury, how long recovery is expected to take, and the conduct of the party at fault. It’s important to hire a Pasadena car accident lawyer to explain what types of damages apply in your specific case.
Average Amounts for Car Accident Settlements
The amount rewarded after a successful car accident case can vary broadly, depending on the extent of all injuries and the complexity of the case. Using our firm’s case results, we can provide an idea of what clients might expect in car accident settlements. For example, in Rivera v. San Fernando Valley Automotive, Tom Beck and Greg Vanni secured a $7,250,000 settlement for three clients injured in a collision with a pickup truck.
Neck injuries requiring surgery have yielded significant results, as seen in Simmons v. Estate of Timothy Eaton, with a $1.5 million settlement following a highway collision. Jury verdicts can also surpass pre-trial offers, such as in Wolford v. Hardin, where a 20-year-old client received over $1.4 million despite comparative negligence and a maximum pre-trial offer of $200,000.
Other awards included:
- $277,000 in arbitration for a rear-end back injury in Lamanna v. Said
- $250,000 for a fractured arm in Karantonis v. Davis
- $241,217 jury verdicts in intoxicated taxi driver collisions, like Trejo/Gotanda v. L.A. Checker Cab Cooperative
Because of the broad range of settlement amounts we’ve been able to secure for our clients, consulting us about the details of your case is vital to knowing what to expect. Our team can provide realistic compensation expectations in your unique case.
Why Hire a Car Accident Lawyer From Thon Beck Vanni Callahan & O’Connor?
Our case results speak for themselves. Here at Thon Beck Vanni Callahan & O’Connor, our skilled team has spent years helping California victims of car accidents secure the compensation they deserve. We’re determined to get our clients the ideal outcome for their case to help make their lives a little easier.
FAQs
Q: What Is the Difference Between Economic and Non-Economic Damages?
A: In car accident claims, damages are typically classified as either economic or non-economic. Economic damages refer to tangible financial losses, such as medical expenses. Non-economic damages account for more subjective losses, like pain and suffering. Together, the compensation for these damages aims to repay accident victims for both the financial and personal impact of their injuries.
Q: How Long Do I Have to File My Claim?
A: In California, car accident claims must be filed within two years from the date of injury. If the claim involves a government entity, the deadline is much shorter: only six months from the incident. Failing to meet these deadlines typically results in the dismissal of the case. Filing early can preserve vital evidence, secure witness testimony, and enable your car accident attorney to gather medical records.
Q: What’s the Settlement Process Like?
A: After a car accident in California, the settlement process usually begins with reporting the incident to the insurance company. An investigation follows, which may include reviewing police reports, speaking with witnesses, and assessing damage. Once liability is determined, the insurer calculates damages. Negotiation often occurs next, where the injured party or their representative can counter low offers and work toward a fair settlement amount.
Q: What Factors Affect the Outcome of My Car Accident Settlement?
A: Several key elements affect your settlement’s value, including the severity of your injuries, along with your total medical expenses, lost wages, and future earning capacity. Pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and the impact on your daily life are also considered. The at-fault driver’s insurance coverage, property damage, and legal costs also have a role.
Contact Thon Beck Vanni Callahan & O’Connor Today
Our team understands the complexities of California car accident laws and works to protect injured parties’ rights. We provide personalized attention, clear communication, and thorough case preparation. Contact us today for assistance with your California claim.