Westerville Car Accident Settlements

Most car accident claims in Ohio resolve through settlements rather than trials. For many injured drivers, settlements may provide a faster path to compensation, but the process is not simple. Insurance companies aim to pay as little as possible and evaluate claims closely, looking for ways to reduce payouts.

At Olawale Law Firm, our talented car accident attorneys understand how Westerville car accident settlements work, and we help clients evaluate their claims, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the compensation they deserve.

How Car Accident Settlements Are Calculated

No two settlements are the same. Every car accident claim in Westerville is unique, and so is the settlement amount. Several factors influence the settlement value of your case, including:

• Property damage: Vehicle repairs or replacement
• Lost income: Lost wages because you had to miss work
• Pain and suffering: Emotional distress  and lasting physical discomfort
• Medical expenses: Which can include emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment

Insurance companies also consider fault when calculating settlement amounts. Because the state follows a contributory negligence rule, your compensation may be reduced if you are partially responsible for the accident.

The Role of Comparative Negligence in Your Settlement

Under Ohio Revised Code § 2315.33, an injured person may recover compensation if they are 50 percent or less at fault for a crash. The settlement decreases in proportion to that person’s share of responsibility.

For example:

• If your damages total $80,000 but you are 20 percent at fault, you may recover $64,000.
• If you are 51 percent or more at fault, you cannot collect damages under Ohio law.

Because insurance companies often try to increase your percentage of fault to lower payouts, working with a knowledgeable Westerville car accident attorney can make a substantial difference in your final settlement.

Why Insurance Companies Push Quick Settlements

Insurers frequently offer fast settlements soon after an accident, but these initial offers are often much lower than the actual value of your claim. Accepting too quickly can leave you without enough to cover:

• Loss of earning capacity
• Future medical treatments
• Long-term therapy or rehabilitation
• Other ongoing costs related to the accident

An attorney can review the offer, calculate the true value of your claim, and negotiate directly with the insurer to protect your interests.

Speak With a Westerville Car Accident Lawyer Before Accepting a Settlement

Understanding how Westerville car accident settlements are determined is an important step in protecting your financial future. At Olawale Law Firm, our Westerville car accident lawyers work closely with clients to gather evidence, calculate damages, and pursue the compensation they deserve.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can guide you through the settlement process with confidence.