If you have suffered back or neck injuries in a Rhode Island car accident that was caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to significant compensation through an injury settlement or court award.
However, it can be difficult to determine what a fair settlement amount would be for your specific injuries and losses.
In this article, we will provide an overview of average settlement amounts for some of the most common car accident back and neck injuries in Rhode Island. We will also discuss key factors that impact settlement values and how an experienced Rhode Island car accident attorney can help maximize your injury claim.
Common Back and Neck Injuries in Car Accidents
According to government statistics, over 200,000 car accident injury claims are filed every year in the U.S. Many of these involve back and neck injuries, which can range from mild muscle strains to herniated discs and spinal cord damage.
Some of the most common back and neck injuries from car accidents include:
- Whiplash – The muscles and ligaments in the neck and upper back are strained when the head is abruptly thrust back and forth, resulting in this neck injury. It can cause stiffness, reduced range of motion, headaches, and radiating pain.
- Herniated Discs – A ruptured or slipped disc occurs when an intervertebral disc is damaged, causing the gel-like nucleus to protrude and put pressure on the spinal nerves. This often leads to numbness, weakness, and severe back pain.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – In severe crashes, discs can be fractured or the spinal cord can be bruised or severed, resulting in partial or total paralysis of the arms and legs. These are catastrophic, life-altering injuries.
- Sprains and Strains – Soft tissue injuries like muscle strains and ligament sprains are common in auto accidents. They cause inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility in the back and neck.
- Fractures – The force of a crash can fracture vertebrae or cause broken ribs that can puncture internal organs. These fractures require extensive treatment and recovery time.
The type and severity of back and neck injuries depend on factors like the speed of impact, use of seatbelts, position of the body, and more. Even low-speed rear-end collisions can cause whiplash and herniated discs, requiring medical care.
Factors That Determine Settlement Amounts in Rhode Island
There is no typical or average settlement for car accident back and neck injuries in Rhode Island. Each case depends on its specific circumstances. However, some key factors impact a potential settlement amount:
- Liability – If liability is disputed, proving the other driver was at fault becomes crucial. Clear liability usually increases settlement value.
- Injury Severity – More severe, permanent injuries warrant higher settlements. Minor soft tissue injuries settle for less.
- Medical Bills – Higher medical costs equate to higher settlements. Extensive treatment like surgery can increase settlement value.
- Lost Income – The settlement may cover income lost while recovering from injury. Ongoing lost wages may further increase settlements.
- Pain and Suffering – Settlements account for physical pain and emotional distress from the injury and recovery process. More severe injuries typically result in higher awards.
- Policy Limits – The defendant’s insurance policy limits cap the potential payout. Higher policy limits allow larger settlements.
Thoroughly documenting injuries, medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering helps secure fair compensation. Experienced personal injury attorneys know how to maximize settlement value.
Average Settlement for Car Accident Back and Neck Injuries
The average compensation amount for neck and back injuries in Rhode Island varies depending on the context of the injury.
For personal injury cases, the average settlement amount is $399,333, with a median amount of $300,000. In the context of workers’ compensation, the average settlement for a back injury can range from $20,000 to $80,000.
For car accidents, the average settlement for a moderate neck and back injury is around $20,906, while severe injuries can lead to settlements averaging $396,449.
The Role of Insurance Companies in Settlement Offers
In most personal injury cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance company will make an initial low-ball settlement offer to the injured party. Insurance adjusters often make unreasonably low offers in hopes of settling quickly and cheaply.
It’s critical that you work with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer to assess your claim accurately, substantiate any lost expenses, and vigorously pursue a just settlement that compensates you for all of your losses and injuries. An attorney understands common insurance company tactics and can successfully fight for maximum compensation.
Strategies for Maximizing Your Settlement
Don’t leave money on the table when settling your car accident injury claim. Here are some tips:
- Seek prompt medical attention – Gaps in treatment can reduce claim value.
- Follow doctor’s orders – Not doing prescribed therapy or attending appointments can be used against you.
- Keep excellent records – Organized medical records and cost documentation strengthen a claim.
- Watch what you say to insurers – Anything said can hurt your claim, so let your attorney handle communications.
- Be patient – Higher settlements can take time and negotiations. Don’t rush into accepting the first offer.
It is best to have an experienced personal injury attorney handle every facet of your claim to guarantee you get just compensation.
Let a Rhode Island Injury Lawyer Fight for Maximum Compensation
At Louis W. Grande Injury Law, their experienced personal injury attorneys have helped numerous car accident victims recover compensation for their back and neck injuries. The attorneys handle every aspect of the claims process while clients focus on healing.
To learn more about how the Louis W. Grande Injury Law can potentially assist with an injury claim, contact their Providence office today to schedule a free initial consultation.
