When you’re in a car accident in Utah – one of the first questions that comes to mind is – “How much compensation should I expect?”
While it’s hard to pin down a specific number due to the unique details of every case – having a general understanding can help you plan ahead.
The value of a car accident claim depends on various factors, like the severity of injuries, damages, and insurance coverage.
For the right estimate – it is best to get in touch with a Salt Lake City car accident lawyer.
What is the average car accident settlement in Utah?
Based on reports from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) – Utah car accident settlements vary widely.
A review of actual car accident injury cases filed in Utah courts shows a wide range of settlement amounts depending on the severity of the injuries.
| Severity of Injury | Average Payout |
| Severe Injury | $403,329 |
| Moderate Injury | $33,308 |
| Minor Injury | $6,772 |
Payout Range by Type of Accident
| Type of Accident | Payout Range |
| Head-on collisions | $115,000 to $2,020,000 |
| Rear-end collisions | $1,852 to $325,000 |
| Side-impact collisions | $9,397 to $300,000 |
In 2019, the average car accident settlement was about $12,971. However, this figure includes all types of claims and doesn’t show the full range.
For example –
Bodily Injury Liability (BI): Around $20,336 on average
Property Damage Liability (PD): Approximately $4,303
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Claims (UMBI/UIMBI): Averaging $44,311 for bodily injury
These numbers show how different types of claims can vary. According to Salt Lake City car accident law firm, – bodily injury claims tend to be higher due to medical costs – while property damage claims are often lower.
A personal injury attorney can help you get fair compensation for the damage and losses you have incurred.
Factors that influence your car accident settlement
The final amount you might receive for your car accident claim depends on several key factors.
Severity of injuries and medical expenses
The more serious your injuries are, the higher your potential compensation. Utah’s no-fault insurance system requires that your medical expenses exceed $3,000 before you can file a bodily injury claim against an at-fault driver. Severe injuries that result in permanent disability or significant disfigurement will also impact your claim’s value.
Available evidence
Strong evidence can make or break your claim. This includes:
Medical bills and reports – Proof of treatment and costs
Receipts – For any out-of-pocket expenses
Photos and videos – Taken at the scene of the crash
Police reports – Essential for proving fault
Liability and comparative fault
Utah follows a comparative fault system, meaning if you are partially at fault for the car wreck – your compensation will be reduced by that percentage. For example, if you’re found 40% at fault for the collision and the total damages are $10,000 – you would only receive $6,000. To receive any compensation – you must be less than 50% at fault.
Insurance Policy Limits
Your compensation can be limited by the at-fault driver’s insurance policy. If their policy covers up to $25,000 and your medical expenses are $30,000 – you’ll only be able to claim $25,000 unless you pursue other legal avenues. This is where underinsured motorist accident claims come into play – providing additional coverage.
Why get help from a car accident law firm in Salt Lake City?
The data speaks for itself – having an attorney can significantly impact your settlement. According to surveys – claimants represented by car accident attorney in Salt Lake City receive – on average, three times the compensation compared to those who handle claims on their own.
A skilled car accident lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company, gather necessary evidence – and guarantee you meet all legal deadlines.
Working with an uninsured motorist car accident lawyer in Salt Lake City – can be especially beneficial if the at-fault driver lacks adequate coverage.
For comprehensive legal guidance – consider reaching out to a Salt Lake City personal injury attorney. They can evaluate your case, help you understand your options – and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Conclusion
Estimating a car accident settlement in Utah isn’t straightforward due to the many variables involved. Factors like – the severity of injuries, available evidence, liability, and insurance policy limits all play crucial roles.
To maximize your settlement – make sure you document everything, understand the value of your claim, and consult with a knowledgeable Salt Lake City car accident attorney.