Average San Diego Car Accident Settlement 2023-2024
Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Short answer: According to year end data we found in California, the average car accident settlement in San Diego is approximately $21,000 – $23,000. Most car accidents settle for lower amounts because there are often minimal or no injuries.
Car accidents with moderate or severe injuries can often settle for numbers much larger than the average we have here.
Common San Diego Car Accident Settlement Amounts
| Severity of Accident | Average San Diego Car Accident Settlement |
| Minor | Approximately: $10,000-$25,000 |
| Moderate | Approximately: $25,000-$100,000 |
| Severe | Approximately: $100,000-$500,000+ |
San Diego Car Accident Settlement Examples
- San Diego to pay out $10M to victims’ families in fatal crash caused by off-duty police officer
- San Diego to pay $4.8 million after collision left one dead, one injured
- Unsafe driving by San Diego city workers has cost $31.2 million to settle accident claims
- San Diego is paying out a settlement of $2.3M for a man who suffered back injuries when hit by a city trash truck in North Park.
Factors that Can Affect San Diego Car Accident Settlements
Several factors can influence the settlement amount in a San Diego car accident case. It’s essential to consult with a personal injury attorney for personalized advice. However, here are general factors that may have a significant impact and those that might be less influential:
Factors with a Significant Impact
- Severity of Injuries: The extent and severity of your injuries will heavily influence the settlement. More severe injuries often lead to higher medical expenses and increased compensation for pain and suffering.
- Medical Expenses: Documented and substantial medical expenses related to the accident can significantly contribute to a higher settlement.
- Liability: Clear evidence proving the other party’s fault is crucial. The more convincing your case on liability, the stronger your position in negotiations.
- Lost Wages: If the accident caused you to miss work, resulting in lost income, this can contribute to a larger settlement.
- Evidence: Strong evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and photos, can strengthen your case and impact the settlement positively.
Factors with Less Impact
- Property Damage: While property damage is relevant, it typically has less impact on the overall settlement compared to factors like medical expenses and the severity of injuries.
- Pre-existing Conditions: The presence of pre-existing medical conditions may be considered but might have less influence on the settlement than the injuries directly caused by the accident.
- Emotional Distress: While pain and suffering are compensable, emotional distress might have less predictable valuation and impact.
*Remember, the specifics of your case will determine how each factor applies. Consulting with a San Diego car accident attorney can provide a clearer understanding of how these factors might influence your settlement.
Why Documenting Evidence is Important
Documenting evidence after a car accident is crucial for building a strong case. Promptly gathering information, such as photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries, provides tangible proof of the incident.
Obtaining witness statements, police reports, and preserving medical records ensures a comprehensive and accurate account. This evidence not only aids in determining liability but also supports the calculation of damages, including medical expenses and lost wages.
Thorough documentation strengthens the foundation for an insurance claim or legal action, enhancing the likelihood of a favorable car accident settlement.
Why Insurance Adjusters Shouldn’t Be Treated Like Your Best Friend
Insurance companies, despite their advertising, are not inherently aligned with your best interests after a car accident. Their primary goal is to minimize payouts and protect their bottom line. Adjusters may downplay injuries, dispute liability, or offer low settlements.
Engaging with them without legal representation risks undervaluing your claim. Insurance companies prioritize their profits, and what may seem like a friendly approach often serves their financial interests. Seeking independent legal advice ensures your rights are protected and helps navigate negotiations to secure a fair and just settlement after a car accident.
How Comparative Negligence Comes Into Play
In San Diego, comparative negligence impacts car accident settlements by assigning fault percentages. If you’re found partially at fault, your compensation is reduced proportionately. For example, if you’re deemed 20% responsible, your settlement decreases by that percentage.
California’s pure comparative negligence system allows recovery even if you’re mostly at fault, but your compensation diminishes based on your contribution to the accident. It’s crucial to navigate this legal landscape with an attorney to optimize your settlement in light of comparative negligence considerations.
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Filing a Claim
Delaying filing a claim or hiring a lawyer can harm your settlement prospects. Statutes of limitations impose deadlines, and missing them may eliminate your right to compensation. Evidence crucial to proving your case can degrade over time, weakening your position.
Insurance companies may exploit delays, offering lower settlements or disputing liability. Consulting a lawyer promptly ensures timely filing, preserves evidence, and provides legal guidance, maximizing your chances of a fair settlement in a car accident case.
Get Connected with an Attorney
If you’re not sure what to do after your car accident, give us a call as soon as you can. We can connect you with some of the best San Diego car accident attorneys to see if you have a potential case for free. Each attorney offers free initial consultations and doesn’t charge a fee unless they win.
