What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident Hip Injury in Atlanta?

hip injury from a car accident shown on a skeleton

A car accident can lead to devastating injuries, and one of the most serious and life-altering injuries is a hip injury. The hip is a critical joint that supports mobility, and damage can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. If you have suffered a hip injury in a car accident in Georgia, you may be wondering how much compensation you can expect. The short answer is that there is no single average settlement for a car accident hip injury.

Car accident settlements for hip injuries can vary widely depending on injury severity and other factors. Claims for soft tissue injuries or bursitis can range from $10,000 to $50,000, while car accident settlements for severe hip injuries like hip fractures and pelvic fractures often range from $150,000 to over $500,000.

At The Weinstein Firm, we help accident victims in Atlanta and across Georgia pursue the maximum compensation. Contact our Atlanta car accident lawyers today for a free consultation.

Common Hip Injuries in Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause various types of hip injuries, some of which may require extensive medical treatment. The severity of the injury often depends on the impact of the crash, the position of the body at the time of collision, and the victim’s overall health.

Some of the most common hip injuries from car accidents include:

Hip Fracture

A hip fracture is a break in the upper portion of the femur (thigh bone). This injury is more common in older adults but can happen to anyone involved in a serious car crash. A fractured hip often requires surgery, such as hip replacement or internal fixation with metal screws and plates.

Hip Dislocation

A dislocated hip occurs when the ball of the femur is forced out of the hip socket. This injury is extremely painful and often results from high-impact crashes. It requires immediate medical attention, and recovery may take months, sometimes leading to long-term mobility issues.

Acetabular Fracture

The acetabulum is the socket in the pelvis where the femur fits. A fracture in this area can cause severe pain and instability. Treatment often includes surgery to realign the joint, followed by months of rehabilitation.

Bursitis

Bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) in the hip joint become inflamed, causing pain and stiffness. While not as severe as a fracture, bursitis can still impact mobility and quality of life, requiring physical therapy and pain management.

Hip Ligament Strain/Sprain

Ligament injuries in the hip can lead to instability and ongoing pain. These injuries often heal with rest and physical therapy, but in severe cases, surgery may be required.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis is the inflammation of tendons around the hip joint. It is typically caused by overuse but can be aggravated by trauma from a car accident. Recovery may require anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, and in rare cases, surgery.

Labral Tear

The hip labrum is a ring of cartilage that helps stabilize the hip joint. A hip labral tear can cause pain, clicking sensations, and limited mobility. Treatment may involve physical therapy or arthroscopic surgery.

Pelvic Fracture

A pelvic fracture is a break in any part of the pelvic bone. This can be a life-threatening injury if internal organs are affected. Surgery, hospitalization, and extensive rehabilitation are often required for recovery.

average settlement for car accident hip injury

What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident Hip Injury?

Settlement amounts for hip injuries vary significantly based on severity, required treatment, and long-term impact. While each case is unique, general settlement ranges include:

  • Minor Soft Tissue Injuries (Bursitis, Tendonitis, Mild Sprains/Strains): $10,000 – $50,000
  • Moderate Hip Injuries (Labral Tears, Severe Strains, Some Dislocations): $50,000 – $150,000
  • Severe Hip Injuries (Hip Fractures, Acetabular Fractures, Pelvic Fractures Requiring Surgery): $150,000 – $500,000+

If a hip injury causes a permanent disability or requires lifelong medical care, settlements can exceed $1 million.

What Influences Car Accident Hip Injury Settlements?

Several factors affect how much compensation you may receive for a hip injury after a car accident in Georgia. These include:

Medical Treatment and Medical Expenses

Medical costs are a major factor in hip injury settlement amounts. This includes emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and ongoing doctor visits. The more extensive the treatment, the higher the potential settlement.

Lost Income

If your hip injury prevents you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. For severe injuries that result in long-term disability, future lost earnings may also be included in your settlement.

Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering compensation accounts for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury. This is calculated based on the severity of the injury, recovery time, and impact on daily life. Severe injuries that cause chronic pain or permanent disability result in higher pain and suffering settlements.

Impact on Life and Daily Activities

Hip injuries can limit mobility, making it difficult to perform daily activities, participate in hobbies, or engage in family life. If your injury prevents you from walking, exercising, or caring for yourself, this can increase the settlement amount.

Long-Term Disability and Future Medical Costs

If a hip injury leads to permanent disability or requires ongoing medical care, settlements will account for future medical costs. This includes additional surgeries, physical therapy, assistive devices (such as canes or walkers), and home modifications.

The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Coverage

The settlement amount also depends on the insurance policy limits of the at-fault driver. If their insurance coverage is low, you may need to pursue compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Comparative Fault in Georgia

Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are found partially at fault for the accident, your settlement amount may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are 20% responsible for the accident and your total damages are $100,000, you would receive $80,000.

However, if you are more than 50% at fault, you are not eligible for compensation.

hip pain after a car accident

How an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Can Help Victims

Given the medical costs, rehabilitation, and potential for long-term disability, seeking legal representation from a car accident lawyer is crucial for victims dealing with hip injuries.

Gathering Evidence and Proving Fault

Insurance companies and opposing parties often try to shift blame or downplay the severity of injuries. An experienced car accident lawyer will gather evidence, such as police reports, eyewitness testimonies, and medical records, to build a strong case demonstrating that the other driver was responsible for the accident.

A lawyer can also connect victims with medical professionals who will properly document the extent of the hip injury. This medical documentation is crucial in negotiating a fair settlement with insurance companies or presenting a compelling case in court.

Negotiating With the Insurance Company

Insurance companies are known for minimizing payouts to protect their profits. They may attempt to offer a quick settlement that does not fully cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A car accident lawyer is skilled in negotiating with insurance adjusters and will fight for a fair settlement.

Representing You in Court

Most car accident claims are resolved outside of court. However, our skilled personal injury attorneys are prepared to take your case to trial if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you experience delayed hip pain after a car accident?

Yes, hip pain may not be immediately apparent after a car accident. Adrenaline and shock can mask pain for hours or even days. If you start experiencing stiffness, discomfort, or difficulty walking in the days following an accident, you should seek medical attention to rule out any underlying injuries.

What hip injury symptoms should you watch for after a car crash?

Common symptoms of hip injuries include pain in the hip or groin area, swelling, bruising, difficulty bearing weight, a popping or clicking sensation, reduced range of motion, and instability in the joint. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to get evaluated by a doctor.

What is the treatment for hip injuries?

Treatment for hip injuries varies depending on the severity. Minor injuries may be treated with rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. More serious injuries, such as fractures or dislocations, may require surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term pain management.

Contact the Weinstein Firm for a Free Case Review

At The Weinstein Firm, we understand how devastating a hip injury can be. We fight to win maximum compensation for clients in Atlanta and across Georgia. Our experienced car accident attorneys will investigate your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and take your claim to court if necessary.

Our team has a track record of winning millions of dollars for accident victims across Georgia. If you or a loved one has suffered a hip injury in a car accident, don’t settle for less than you deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get the compensation you need to recover and move forward.

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