Being involved in a car accident is one of the most overwhelming things anyone can experience. It is difficult to know what to expect from a settlement, especially with constantly changing laws. Being informed helps you make smart choices when it comes to car accident settlement expectations. With more laws, better safety technology, and cost factors shifting, knowing what’s realistic can help you get the best deal in 2025.
What Factors Influence Car Accident Settlements
Settlements are complicated, and no two are the same. Every settlement depends upon several factors, including:
- The Severity of All Injuries (Your own and those of others)
- Medical ExpensesÂ
- Missed Work and Future WagesÂ
- Property Damage and Out-of-Pocket CostsÂ
- Pain, Suffering, and Impact on Your LifeÂ
- Who Was at Fault (Arizona’s pure comparative negligence rules mean your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault)
- Insurance Coverage Available
- Evidence From the Scene
- The Circumstances of the Accident
Medical Bills, Lost Wages, and Pain & Suffering
After an accident, it is common for anyone to seek medical attention and need time off work, therefore experiencing medical bills, lost wages, and pain & suffering. It is important to have accurate documentation of all expenses incurred and keep an organized file. Request copies of medical bills and records, and keep track of all expenses related to the accident.
How Insurance Companies Value Your Claim
When it comes to determining pain and suffering damages (non-economic damages), insurance companies typically use a method called the “multiplier method” in Arizona. This is based on the idea that accidents with higher direct costs, such as medical bills and property damage, are likely to have caused more pain and suffering. The multiplier used can range from 1.5 to 5, depending on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life. Remember that negotiations play a big part in final settlement amounts.
Timeline for Reaching a Settlement in 2025
Although many straightforward settlements in Arizona can occur within a few weeks to a few months, cases involving significant injuries or complex liability disputes can vary significantly, potentially taking anywhere from several months to over two years. This can vary significantly based on factors such as accident type, injury severity, and who was at fault. It’s important to remember that Arizona generally has a two-year statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit from the date of the accident.
When Should You Settle vs. Go to Trial?
This may be a difficult decision to make. There are some key points to keep in mind, such as the severity of the accident and any injuries that may have been sustained. Remember that settling a claim means coming to a faster resolution, usually in about 6-18 months, and you also save on legal fees as well as eliminate the uncertainties of a court verdict. It is also important to know that once a settlement is reached, further compensation usually can not be pursued, even if additional expenses arise. However, when you settle, you may receive a significantly lesser amount than you would otherwise. On the other hand, a trial can take several years, and the outcome is not guaranteed. There are higher court costs involved, which can be a burden.
How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Maximize Compensation
A lawyer is dedicated to calculating the full extent of your damages, such as any current or future medical expenses, lost wages, pain & suffering, and reduced earning capacity to maximize any compensation that you may receive. An attorney can also help navigate Arizona’s specific laws, like pure comparative negligence, to protect your claim.
Contact Kwasman Law if You've Been in a Car Accident
Life can be truly unpredictable, and when the unexpected happens, it is important to have legal counsel to help. If you’ve been in a car accident in Arizona, contact Kwasman Law to discuss your options.
