What Is the Average Payout for a Rear-End Collision?

Rear-end collisions are one of the most frequent types of car accidents in St. Louis and across the country, often resulting in property damage, personal injuries, and financial hardship for those involved. If you’ve been injured in this kind of crash, you may be asking, “What is the average payout for a rear-end collision?” While the settlement can vary widely depending on the circumstances, we’ll help break down the factors influencing the average amount and what you can expect when pursuing a personal injury claim. At Burger Law, we’ve helped countless clients in St. Louis recover compensation after rear-end collisions, and we can do the same for you.

How Much Is a Rear-End Accident Claim Worth?

The average payout for a rear-end collision typically ranges from $15,000 to $50,000, though this amount can fluctuate depending on the severity of the accident and the specific details of each case. Settlements for relatively minor injuries, such as whiplash, may fall on the lower end of the spectrum. In more serious cases—where victims sustain long-term injuries or permanent disabilities—the payment can exceed $100,000 or more.

Numerous factors contribute to these figures, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Missouri operates under a comparative negligence rule, which can also influence the settlement. This means that the degree of fault assigned to each party can directly impact the final amount.

What Factors Determine the Settlement Amount for a Rear-End Accident Claim?

Some key factors influence the compensation amount for a rear-end collision. While each case is unique, the most important elements include:

• Severity of injuries: More serious or long-term injuries lead to higher settlements due to ongoing medical needs and life changes.
• Medical expenses: Hospitalization, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation costs, including future care, increase the payment.
• Property damage: They include the cost of vehicle repairs or replacement, usually substantial in rear-end crashes.
• Lost wages and future earnings: If you’re unable to work, you can recover lost income and indemnity for reduced future earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering: Payouts for emotional and physical distress vary depending on their impact on quality of life.
• Fault determination: Under Missouri’s comparative negligence law, being partially liable reduces your compensation proportionally.

Insurance companies, lawyers, and courts carefully evaluate these elements when determining an appropriate settlement amount.

Recoverable Medical Expenses for Rear-End Collision Injuries

Medical costs can quickly accumulate after a collision, especially if injuries are harsh. Common injuries in rear-end accidents include whiplash, back injuries, spinal cord damage, and concussions. Victims usually face:

• Emergency room visits.
• Hospital stays.
• Surgeries.
• Physical therapy.
• Ongoing medical treatments.

In Missouri, you can recover compensation for all reasonable and necessary healthcare expenses related to the incident. This includes both past charges and any anticipated future medical needs. It’s essential to keep detailed records of all treatments, as this documentation will play a crucial role in securing full compensation.

How the Monetary Value of Your Rear-End Collision Damages Is Calculated

Coverage companies and attorneys use a variety of methods to calculate the monetary value of a rear-end accident claim. Typically, this involves adding up economic damages (like hospital bills and lost wages) and then determining non-economic ones.

Insurance adjusters typically use a multiplier method to determine pain and suffering damages. This includes multiplying your total medical expenses by a number between 1.5 and 5, depending on the gravity of your injuries and the impact on your life. For example, if you incurred $20,000 in medical expenses and a multiplier of 3 is applied, your compensation could be $60,000.

Nonetheless, remember that insurers are motivated to pay as little as possible, so having a legal team negotiate on your behalf is crucial to ensuring a fair settlement.

“I’ve devoted my life to ensuring our clients get full injury compensation.”

 

Gary Burger

Litigation Attorney

Learn More About Rear-End Accident Settlements in Your Free Case Review

Every situation is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what your settlement might be. That’s why it’s essential to get personalized legal advice. We’ll review the details of your collision, assess the strength of your claim, and help you move forward confidently.

With over two decades of experience fighting for the rights of St. Louis residents, Burger Law is committed to securing maximum compensation for our clients. Whether your case is settled through negotiation or requires going to court, we’re prepared to handle every step of the process on your behalf.

How Much Will It Cost To Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?

Our team works on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything unless we win your claim. We believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. Our payment structure guarantees that you can focus on recovering from your injuries rather than worrying about upfront legal costs.

If we secure a payout or court award on your behalf, our charges will be taken as a percentage of the total compensation. We’ll discuss all fees upfront so there are no surprises, and we’re always transparent about calculating costs.

How Long Does It Take To Settle a Rear-End Accident Lawsuit?

The time it takes to settle a rear-end collision claim can vary depending on several factors, including the case’s complexity and whether or not a trial is necessary. The average personal injury claim is settled within three to nine months, but cases involving harsh injuries or disputed liability may take longer.

It’s important to remember that rushing the process could result in a lower payout, especially if the full extent of your injuries is not yet known. Patience can lead to a more favorable outcome, as it allows for a comprehensive evaluation of your medical condition and the long-term impact of the event.

Let Burger Law Help You Get the Compensation You Deserve

Our experienced attorneys have helped countless clients recover fair compensation after rear-end accidents. We understand the intricacies involved and are here to support you. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Call us (314) 500-HURT or visit 501 N. Broadway, Suite 1860, St. Louis, MO 63102.

Gary Burger

Founder | Injury Attorney
Gary Burger has dedicated his career to standing up against bullies. The founder and principal attorney of Burger Law | St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer has helped hundreds of Missouri and Illinois individuals and families recover th …
Years of experience: 30 years
Location: St. Louis, MO

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