The average compensation for being hit by a car is a complex subject because several legal factors come into play. For a pedestrian hit by car, understanding the potential compensation is critical, as it often involves significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. That is why today we will explain, in a simple way, this type of compensation.
Average Compensation for Pedestrian and Car Accidents
Below, we’ll explore the average compensation for a pedestrian hit by car and the factors that play a role in determining these amounts.
Average Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Injuries
While it can be challenging to calculate an exact average compensation for being hit by a car, recent data offers some helpful insights. According to a 2023 report by the Insurance Information Institute titled “Facts + Statistics: Auto Insurance,” the average car liability claim for bodily injury is approximately $26,501.
However, when calculating the average settlement for car accident cases, various factors can significantly increase the total value.
How Drunk Driving Affects Compensation Amounts
One of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents is drunk driving. As such, determining the average settlement hit by drunk driver cases involves additional legal and moral complexities.
According to Florida DUI and Administrative Suspension Laws, drunk driving carries harsh penalties, and if it results in pedestrian injuries, the consequences for the driver are even more severe. This often leads to higher compensation amounts for the victims.
Key Factors Influencing Compensation Values
If you’ve been involved in such an accident, consulting a pedestrian accident lawyer can make a significant difference. Their expertise ensures all factors, such as medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering, are properly considered in your case. Understanding what affects the average compensation for being hit by a car is crucial. Below are the main factors to consider:
Medical Expenses and Rehabilitation Costs
Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports 9,192 pedestrian accidents in 2024, with 7,369 resulting in injuries. Severe injuries often lead to exponential costs, especially for rehabilitation.
The 2023 Report of Deaths and Injuries Involving Off-Highway Vehicles notes that fractures (29%) are the most common injury type, with the head and neck (35%) being the most affected areas. These injuries, particularly involving the head, can be extraordinarily expensive to treat.
Lost Wages and Future Earning Capacity
Injuries such as fractures may prevent victims from working for extended periods, which directly impacts lost wages and future earning potential. This is a key factor in calculating the average compensation for being hit by a car.
Pain and Suffering
Psychological pain and suffering, including conditions like PTSD, are also considered. Research on quality of life after trauma highlights that PTSD patients face diminished quality of life and may experience disabilities due to depression or anhedonia. While not every victim develops PTSD, some level of emotional trauma is common after serious accidents.
Hit and Run Compensation Amount
Cases involving hit and run compensation amount are unique. If the responsible party flees the scene, this constitutes a crime under Florida Statute 316.027. Florida law holds drivers accountable, as outlined in The Official Florida Driver License Handbook, which explains a driver’s responsibilities after a crash.
Due to the criminal nature of hit-and-run accidents, victims often receive higher compensation compared to a standard pedestrian hit by car accident case.
Legal Challenges in Hit-and-Run Cases
Hit-and-run cases can present several challenges:
- Identifying the responsible driver.
- Securing compensation when the driver remains unidentified.
- Proving the driver’s liability.
- Insurance coverage limitations.
Perhaps the most significant challenge is identifying the driver responsible for the accident, which we’ll discuss next.
How to Obtain Compensation Without Identifying the Driver
If the driver cannot be identified, victims may still recover compensation through their own insurance policy. Florida law mandates that vehicle owners carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage and Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. These policies can help cover medical expenses resulting from accidents caused by uninsured or unidentified drivers.
How Louis Berk Law Can Help You With Your Claim
At Louis Berk Law, we provide professional and dedicated representation to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Whether it’s a hit and run compensation amount or the average settlement hit by drunk driver cases, we are here to help. Our experienced pedestrian accident lawyer will guide you through the legal process and advocate for the best possible outcome.
Contact us today to discuss your case and let us help you secure your rightful compensation.