July 16, 2025 | Car Accidents
Car accidents can be scary and stressful, especially when you’re hurt and trying to figure out what comes next. One of the biggest questions people have is, “How much money will I get from a car accident settlement?” The answer depends on many things, like how bad your injuries are, how much money you lost from missing work, and even how the accident happened.
If you were in a crash in Chicago, it’s important to understand what goes into a settlement and what you can expect. This article will help explain how car accident settlements work and what might affect the amount of money you receive.
What Is a Car Accident Settlement?
A car accident settlement is an agreement between the injured person (or their lawyer) and the insurance company. It usually happens before a case goes to trial. The insurance company agrees to pay a certain amount of money to cover your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other costs.
In exchange, you must agree not to sue them or ask for more money later. Most car accident claims in Illinois are settled without ever going to court, which is generally more efficient, less expensive, and less stressful for everyone.
What Factors Can Affect My Settlement Amount?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to car accident settlements. Every case is different, but here are some of the main factors that influence how much you might get.
Medical Expenses
The cost of your medical treatment plays a big role in your settlement. This includes ambulance rides, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and even medications. The more serious your injuries, the higher your medical bills will likely be—and that can increase your settlement.
Lost Wages
If you couldn’t work because of the accident, you may be able to recover lost income. This includes the money you missed while healing and, in some cases, future earnings if you can’t return to the same job.
Pain and Suffering
This refers to the physical pain and emotional stress caused by the accident. It’s not always easy to put a dollar amount on pain and suffering, but it’s often included in a settlement.
Property Damage
If your car was damaged or totaled in the crash, the cost to repair or replace it is part of the settlement.
Who Was at Fault
In Illinois, fault plays a big role in how much you can recover. Illinois follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means if you were partly at fault for the crash, your settlement could be reduced by the percentage of fault you share. If you were more than 50% at fault, you may not get any money.
Insurance Policy Limits
Sometimes, even if your case is worth more, the amount you can recover is limited by how much insurance the other driver has. In Illinois, drivers must carry a minimum amount of liability insurance, but this may not be enough in serious accidents.
All of these factors will be considered when determining the final settlement amount. A personal injury attorney can help you evaluate your case and fight for the full amount you deserve.
What Is the Average Car Accident Settlement?
In general, car accident settlements in Chicago can range anywhere from a few thousand dollars to several hundred thousand dollars. Minor accidents with small injuries may settle for $10,000 to $30,000.
More serious injuries that require surgery or lead to long-term problems can settle for $100,000 or more. However, every case is unique. An experienced personal injury lawyer will look at all the details of your situation and help estimate the fair value of your claim.
Contact Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation With a Chicago Car Accident Lawyer
Car accident settlements can vary a lot depending on your injuries, lost wages, and other factors. There’s no exact number you can expect, but understanding what goes into a settlement can help you make informed decisions.
If you’ve been hurt in a car crash in Chicago, don’t try to deal with it alone. Talk with an experienced Chicago car accident attorney who can guide you through the process and help you get the money you need to move forward. Call Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers to arrange a free consultation.
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Chicago, IL, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Our dedicated team is here to provide the expert guidance you need to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced attorneys at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.
We serve Cook County and its surrounding areas:
Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
875 N Dearborn St 4th Floor
Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 635-5400
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