Chris Hammons | June 16, 2025 | Personal Injury
If you’ve been hurt in an accident, you might be wondering how much money you could get in a personal injury settlement. Every case is different, and the amount you receive will depend on many factors. Still, having an idea of the average settlement amount and what influences it can help you better understand what to expect and how to move forward with your claim.
Continue reading to learn more about how much money you might be able to expect from a personal injury settlement, factors affecting the amount, and who to contact if you need help obtaining a settlement.
What Is a Personal Injury Settlement?
A personal injury settlement is money paid to a person who was injured due to someone else’s negligence. This settlement is usually negotiated between the injured party (the plaintiff) and the at-fault party’s insurance company or legal team.
Most personal injury cases settle before going to trial. Settlements are meant to cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The goal is to help the injured person recover financially and emotionally from the accident.
The National Average Settlement Amount
Across the United States, personal injury settlements typically range from $3,000 to $75,000. However, it’s important to know that many cases fall outside this range. Some minor injury claims may settle for under $3,000, while serious injury or wrongful death cases may reach settlements in the hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.
In Oklahoma, settlements can vary just as much. While the state does not publish official averages, Oklahoma personal injury settlements often align with national trends. The most accurate estimate for your case will come from an experienced personal injury attorney who understands Oklahoma law and your specific circumstances.
Factors That Affect Your Settlement Amount
Several key factors affect how much money you may receive in a personal injury settlement:
Severity of Injuries
More serious injuries usually lead to higher settlements. For example, a broken bone may result in a few thousand dollars, while a brain injury could be worth hundreds of thousands or more.
Medical Expenses
The more medical treatment you need, the bigger your settlement may be. Bills from emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and future care are all included. Related to medical expenses, if your injury requires extensive home modifications for accessibility or additional help, such as housekeeping or childcare assistance, these extra costs could also be considered.
Lost Wages
If you miss work due to your injury, you can be compensated for your lost income. Long-term or permanent disabilities that prevent you from working can increase the settlement amount significantly. Lost benefits may also be considered within this category.
Pain and Suffering
“Pain and suffering” refers to the physical and emotional distress caused by the injury. While its value is harder to calculate, insurance companies often use a multiplier based on your medical costs to determine.
Liability and Evidence
If it’s clear that the other party was at fault, your chances of getting a fair settlement are higher. Substantial evidence, such as photos, witness statements, and police reports, can strengthen your case.
Insurance Policy Limits
Sometimes, the at-fault party’s insurance coverage can limit how much you receive. For example, if their policy only covers $50,000, you may not get more than that unless they have other assets.
Each of these factors affects the final settlement amount. An experienced personal injury attorney can help ensure all your damages are fully considered.
Types of Personal Injury Cases and Typical Settlements
Different types of personal injury cases often result in different average settlement amounts:
- Car accidents: May range from $5,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on injuries and damage
- Slip and fall accidents: Usually between $10,000 and $50,000
- Medical malpractice: Can exceed $250,000, especially if lifelong care is needed
- Workplace injuries: Depends on lost wages and disability, with many falling between $20,000 and $100,000
- Product liability: Varies widely, with some reaching into the millions
Every case is unique, so these numbers should only be used as a rough guide. An experienced personal injury attorney can evaluate all aspects of your case, explain what factors in your situation could affect potential settlement amounts, and provide you with a better estimate of what your case might be worth.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a Settlement Award?
The time it takes to receive a personal injury settlement varies. A straightforward case might settle in a few months. However, more complex cases involving serious injuries or legal disputes may take a year or longer.
Some of the same factors that can affect the amount of a personal injury settlement can also affect how long it takes to receive it. Factors that can affect the timeline include the length of your medical treatment, the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate, and whether a lawsuit or trial is necessary.
Should You Accept the First Settlement Offer?
Insurance companies often start with a low offer to save money. While it may be tempting to take the first check, doing so could leave you with unpaid bills or ongoing medical needs.
Always talk to a personal injury lawyer before accepting a settlement. A lawyer can help determine if the offer is fair or if you should negotiate for more.
Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyers at Laird Hammons Laird Trial Lawyers for a Free Consultation
There is no exact number for the “average” personal injury settlement because every case differs. Factors like injury severity, medical costs, and lost income all play a significant role.
By understanding what influences settlements and working with a qualified Oklahoma City personal injury attorney, you can increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.
For more information, please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. Our law office is located in Oklahoma City.
We proudly serve Oklahoma County, OK and its surrounding areas:
Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers – OKC
1332 SW 89th St,
Oklahoma City, OK 73159
(405) 703-4567