Car accidents are a stressful experience for anyone involved, and while many collisions can lead to severe injuries, not all do. Some car accidents result in no injuries, only property damage. In these situations, you might wonder what the average settlement amount is and how to ensure you’re compensated fairly for the damages to your vehicle. Understanding the factors that influence these settlements can help you navigate the claims process and receive the compensation you deserve.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the average settlement for non-injury car accidents in Georgia, factors that can affect settlement amounts, and why working with an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer from The Weinstein Firm can make a significant difference in your case.
Average Settlement for a Non-Injury Car Accident in Georgia
For non-injury car accidents, the settlement amount generally covers vehicle damage and other associated costs. In Georgia, the average settlement for a non-injury car accident can vary widely, typically ranging from $3,000 to $16,500. However, there are cases where the amount could be higher or lower, depending on specific circumstances.
The settlement usually depends on factors such as the extent of damage to the vehicles involved, whether any personal belongings were damaged, and if additional costs like rental cars were incurred. The insurance company of the at-fault driver is responsible for covering the costs, but they may try to limit their payout. This is why having a solid understanding of what factors impact the settlement amount is crucial for reaching a fair resolution.
Factors in Non-Injury Car Accident Settlement Amounts
While it may seem like non-injury car accidents are straightforward, there are still several factors that can significantly influence the settlement amount. These include the extent of vehicle damage, the value of your car, the at-fault party’s insurance limits, and whether you share any of the fault for the collision.
Extent of Vehicle Damage
The most significant factor in determining the settlement amount for a non-injury car accident is the extent of the damage to your vehicle. Insurance companies typically evaluate the cost of repairing the vehicle and may also consider whether it is more cost-effective to declare it a total loss.
Minor Damage
If your car sustained minor damage, such as a small dent or a scratch, the settlement amount may be lower, often ranging between $1,000 and $3,000. This amount typically covers repair costs and any other minor expenses related to the accident.
Significant Damage
If the damage is more extensive—such as damage to the frame, engine, or other vital components—the settlement amount will increase. Repairs for significant damage can cost thousands of dollars, pushing the settlement into the $5,000 to $16,500 range or even higher, depending on the cost of parts and labor.
The Value of Your Car
Another key factor that influences the settlement amount is the value of your car at the time of the accident. Insurance companies use the car’s actual cash value (ACV) to determine how much they will pay for repairs or replacement.
You can use resources like the Kelley Blue Book website to estimate your car’s value before the crash.
Older Vehicles
If your car is older and has depreciated significantly, the insurance company may decide that the cost of repairs is greater than the value of the car, resulting in the vehicle being declared a total loss. In these cases, the settlement amount will be based on the ACV, which could be less than what you need to replace your car with a similar make and model.
Newer Vehicles
For newer vehicles with a higher market value, the insurance company will generally be willing to pay more for repairs. The settlement amount in these cases can be higher, as newer cars typically require more expensive parts and labor to repair.
At-Fault Party’s Insurance Limits
The insurance limits of the at-fault driver also play a significant role in determining your settlement amount. In Georgia, drivers are required to carry minimum liability insurance of $25,000 for property damage. If the at-fault driver’s policy limits are low and the damage to your vehicle exceeds those limits, you may need to explore other avenues to cover the remaining costs.
If the at-fault driver only has the minimum insurance coverage, you may face challenges in getting all of your expenses covered. In these cases, you might need to use your own collision coverage or uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage to bridge the gap.
If the at-fault driver has higher insurance coverage limits, you are more likely to receive a settlement that fully compensates you for the damage to your vehicle.
Shared Fault for the Accident
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your settlement amount may be reduced. If it is determined that you are less than 50% at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
If the total property damage costs are $10,000 and you are found to be 20% at fault, your settlement would be reduced by 20%, resulting in a payout of $8,000.
If you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you will not be able to recover any damages from the other driver. This is why it is important to have solid evidence showing that the other party was primarily responsible for the collision.
How an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Dealing with insurance companies and navigating the claims process for a non-injury car accident can be challenging. Even when there are no injuries, insurance companies often try to minimize the amount they pay for property damage claims. Here’s how an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer from The Weinstein Firm can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Evaluating the Value of Your Claim
It can be challenging to understand the true value of your claim, especially when it involves more than just vehicle repair costs. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you evaluate all the expenses related to the accident, including repair costs, diminished value, rental car expenses, and any other out-of-pocket costs that you may be entitled to recover.
By understanding the full value of your claim, you can avoid settling for less than you deserve.
Handling Insurance Company Negotiations
Insurance companies are in the business of making a profit, which means they often attempt to pay out as little as possible for claims. A skilled lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure that you receive a fair settlement. They will use evidence such as the police report, repair estimates, and photos of the damage to prove your claim and argue for a higher payout.
Proving Fault
Determining fault is critical in an at-fault state like Georgia. An attorney from The Weinstein Firm can help you gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts if necessary to prove the other driver’s liability. This is especially important if the insurance company disputes who was at fault for the accident or if there is a question of shared responsibility.
Navigating Comparative Negligence Issues
If the insurance company claims that you were partially at fault for the accident, it could significantly reduce the settlement amount you receive. Your lawyer can challenge these assertions, present evidence to minimize your share of the blame and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible.
They understand how Georgia’s modified comparative negligence laws work and will fight to protect your interests.
Reducing Stress
Handling the aftermath of a car accident—even one without injuries—can be stressful and time-consuming. By working with an experienced car accident lawyer, you can focus on getting your vehicle repaired and returning to your daily life while your attorney handles the legal and insurance aspects of your case. They will keep you informed throughout the process and work diligently to achieve the best outcome possible.
Contact Us Today for a Free Case Review
The average settlement for a non-injury car accident in Georgia can vary widely, depending on several factors like the extent of vehicle damage, the value of the car, the at-fault driver’s insurance limits, and whether you share fault for the accident. Navigating these issues and dealing with insurance companies can be complex, which is why having an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer is essential.
Our team at The Weinstein Firm understands the challenges you face after a car accident, and we are dedicated to helping you get the compensation you deserve. We have recovered millions of dollars for clients across Georgia. Contact us today for a free consultation.
