Example scenarios for educational purposes
These case studies are hypothetical examples created for educational purposes only. They do not represent actual cases or guaranteed outcomes. Every personal injury case is unique, and actual settlement values depend on many factors including jurisdiction, evidence, insurance coverage, and individual circumstances. These examples should not be used to predict the value of any actual case. Always consult with a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Personal injury settlements vary dramatically based on the specific circumstances of each case. The examples below illustrate how different factors—such as injury severity, liability, jurisdiction, and documentation—can affect potential settlement ranges. These scenarios demonstrate the types of calculations that attorneys and insurance adjusters consider when evaluating claims.
California • Soft Tissue / Whiplash
Driver stopped at a red light was rear-ended by a distracted driver at approximately 25 mph. The impact caused moderate whiplash, requiring 12 weeks of physical therapy. The injured party missed 3 weeks of work.
Based on typical outcomes for similar cases
Texas • Broken Bones / Fractures
Driver proceeding through a green light was struck by another vehicle that ran a red light. The collision resulted in a broken arm and two fractured ribs. Surgery was required to repair the arm with plates and screws.
Based on typical outcomes for similar cases
Florida • Back Injury / Herniated Disc
Customer slipped on an unmarked wet floor in a grocery store, falling and injuring their lower back. An MRI revealed a herniated disc at L4-L5. The store had no wet floor signs and security footage showed the spill existed for over 20 minutes.
Based on typical outcomes for similar cases
New York • Multiple Injuries
Construction worker fell from scaffolding due to missing guardrails. The 15-foot fall resulted in a broken leg, fractured wrist, and mild traumatic brain injury (concussion with lasting symptoms). OSHA investigation found multiple safety violations.
Based on typical outcomes for similar cases
Pennsylvania • Medical Malpractice
Patient presented with symptoms that should have prompted cancer screening. Despite repeated visits over 8 months, the physician failed to order appropriate tests. When cancer was finally diagnosed, it had progressed from Stage 1 to Stage 3, requiring significantly more aggressive treatment.
Based on typical outcomes for similar cases
Arizona • Traumatic Brain Injury
Victim was struck head-on by a drunk driver who crossed the center line. The collision resulted in a moderate traumatic brain injury with ongoing cognitive deficits, requiring extensive rehabilitation. The at-fault driver had a BAC of 0.15.
Based on typical outcomes for similar cases
Illinois • Neck and Back Injuries
Passenger in a rideshare vehicle was injured when the driver ran a stop sign and was hit by another vehicle. The passenger suffered cervical strain, lumbar strain, and a shoulder injury requiring arthroscopic surgery.
Based on typical outcomes for similar cases
Ohio • Lacerations / Scarring
Victim was attacked by an unleashed dog at a public park, suffering deep lacerations to the arm and facial scarring. The dog had a previous bite history. Plastic surgery was required for facial scar revision.
Based on typical outcomes for similar cases
The examples above demonstrate a wide range of potential settlement values. Actual outcomes depend on many factors that cannot be predicted in advance, including:
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