How Much is Your Claim Worth?
How Much is Your Claim Worth?
See awards and settlements paid to real car accident victims in North Carolina. Find injury cases similar to yours.
The average car accident settlement for a moderate injury claim in North Carolina is $29,565. Average payouts range from $7,248 for minor injuries to $640,964 for severe injuries.
Average Payout by Severity of Injury |
|
|---|---|
| Minor Injury | $7,248 |
| Moderate Injury | $29,565 |
| Severe Injury | $640,964 |
Payout Range by Severity of Injury |
|
| Minor Injury | $813 – $12,000 |
| Moderate Injury | $12,300 – $70,000 |
| Severe Injury | $97,808 – $3,250,000 |
Speeding, lane departure, and distracted driving are top contributing factors in North Carolina car accidents. Throughout the United States, side-impact collisions are the most common type of crash resulting in injuries, followed by rear-end collisions.
Average Side-Impact Collision Settlements |
|
|---|---|
| Minor Injury | $7,911 |
| Moderate Injury | $29,157 |
| Severe Injury | $727,851 |
Average Rear-End Accident Settlements |
|
| Minor Injury | $5,906 |
| Moderate Injury | $19,000 |
| Severe Injury | $155,551 |
Our case group includes injuries ranging from soft-tissue bumps and bruises to permanent brain injuries. Most accident victims can expect to settle in the moderate payout range.
Neck and back injuries are the most common injuries from all kinds of vehicle accidents, followed by head injuries. Victims of serious accidents often suffer multiple injuries. Awards and settlements are intended to compensate the victim for all their damages, not just one specific injury.
Average Neck and Back Injury Settlements |
|
|---|---|
| Minor Injury | $7,248 |
| Moderate Injury | $23,220 |
| Severe Injury | $551,808 |
Average Head Injury Settlements |
|
| Minor Injury | $1,000 |
| Moderate Injury | $49,000 |
| Severe Injury | $506,250 |
Severe injury claims should be evaluated by an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney will consider the victim’s future medical expenses, loss of earning potential, need for special services, and extreme pain and suffering arising from serious injuries.
Type of Injury: Neck and back injuries-Soft tissue
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $813
Case Summary: Plaintiff was riding as a back-seat passenger. His vehicle was struck from behind by a car driven by Defendant. Plaintiff’s driver had stopped to make a left turn into a gas station. Defendant braked, but was unable to stop in time to avoid an impact. Plaintiff complained of injuries at the scene, but did not seek medical treatment until several days post-accident. Plaintiff claimed he sustained neck and back injuries. He claimed ongoing difficulties to the date of trial. Defendant contended that this minor accident did not cause any injuries. Defendant also argued that plaintiff was sent to treatment by his attorney. Jury awarded plaintiff $ 813 in damages.
Location: Gaston County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: White v. Cannon, 10CVS467
Type of Injury: Back injury-Cervical / Lumbar Strain
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $2,513
Case Summary: Plaintiff, a truck driver, was struck broadside by the female defendant’s vehicle as she attempted to make a T-turn while traveling in the same direction on a four-lane public roadway. Plaintiff suffered cervical and lumbar strains as a result of the collision. Plaintiff sued defendant and contended that defendant attempted to make a U-turn when it was unsafe to do so, and failed to yield the right-of-way. Defendant admitted liability but disputed plaintiff’s injuries. Defendant also contended that plaintiff did not suffer a wage loss, as his truck was in the process of being repaired for unrelated reasons during his recovery period. Jury sided with plaintiff.
Location: Guilford County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Graves v. Craine, 07-CVS-006263
Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck and shoulder injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $4,200
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving through an intersection ramp when he was struck in the rear by a vehicle driven by defendant. Plaintiff claimed defendant was negligent in following too closely and failed to stop in time to avoid this accident. He argued that he sought treatment for neck and shoulder soft tissue injuries. He maintained that his injuries were the direct result of this accident and that there were no intervening events that could have caused his problems. Defendant contended plaintiff was driving without brake lights, which plaintiff denied. Defendant argued plaintiff was contributorily negligent. Jury awarded plaintiff $4,200 in damages.
Location: Buncombe County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Coates v. Cory, 04CVS1814
Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck and back injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $6,010
Case Summary: Plaintiff stopped his vehicle and was rear-ended by a car driven by defendant. Plaintiff claimed he sustained soft tissue neck and back injuries due to the impact. Plaintiff sued defendant arguing that the defendant was negligent in failing to maintain an assured clear distance ahead and a proper lookout. Defendant admitted liability, but contended the impact speed was too low to have caused plaintiff’s injuries. He argued that plaintiff suffered from a pre-existing spinal condition and his obesity contributed to his pre-existing condition. The jury awarded plaintiff $4,310 for past medicals, plus attorney fees of $1,700 for a total judgment of $6,010.
Location: Guilford County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Rigsbee v. Friebel, 03-CVS-2200
Type of Injury: Soft tissue back injuries
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $6,500
Case Summary: Plaintiff and defendant were operating their respective vehicles on the same road, but in opposite directions. Defendant attempted to make a left turn into a subdivision in front of plaintiff’s oncoming vehicle, resulting in a collision. Plaintiff sustained soft tissue back injuries with subsequent physical therapy and chiropractic expenses. Plaintiff submitted a claim for medical expenses in excess of $3,000. Plaintiff claimed that defendant failed to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic. Defendant admitted liability for the accident, but disputed the injuries claimed by plaintiff. The case settled for $6,500 in favor of plaintiff on the courthouse stairs just minutes before the start of the trial.
Location: Gaston County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Calvert v. Barber, 02 CVS 1742
Type of Injury: Back injuries-soft tissue injuries; Neck injury-fractured clavicle
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $7,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating her vehicle when she became lost and somewhat turned around during a snowstorm. Defendant was traveling behind plaintiff, but at some distance. As plaintiff attempted to turn around in a residential area, defendant passed the plaintiff on her left and the two vehicles collided. Plaintiff sustained a mild fracture of the clavicle and soft tissue injuries to neck and back. Plaintiff sued defendant for negligence. An expert’s testimony as to the placement of the vehicles at time of impact supported that plaintiff was well into her turn at the time of the collision. Defendant disputed causation and plaintiff’s injuries. Jury awarded plaintiff $7,000 in damages.
Location: Guilford County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Reel v. Steed, 03CVS12332
Type of Injury: Back injury-Non-displaced fracture of right C7 vertebra; Neck injury-right clavicle fracture; Shoulder injury- left mid-humeral fractures; Others-scrapes on the forehead, thigh laceration, and neck pain
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $7,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff, a 12-year-old female, was a passenger in a vehicle driven by her mother, Defendant. Defendant admitted she failed to stop for a stop sign at an intersection. As a result, she was involved in a significant impact with another vehicle. Plaintiff sustained multiple orthopedic fractures in the accident. Plaintiff sought past and future non-economic damages. Plaintiff claimed ongoing pain and stiffness as a result of her injuries, including neck pain. Defendant contended that plaintiff recovered well from her injuries, as evidenced by medical records. Defendant maintained that plaintiff’s neck complaints were unrelated to this accident. Jury awarded plaintiff $ 7,000 for pain and suffering only.
Location: Gaston County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Goins v. Wooten, 09-CVS-4110
Type of Injury: Neck and back injuries-Soft tissue
Type of Accident: Head-On
Award/Settlement Amount: $8,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff, a 69-year-old male, who was a tow truck driver was sitting in his parked truck on the side of the road when a vehicle driven by defendant spun out of control on the icy roadway and struck plaintiff’s tow truck head-on. Plaintiff claimed that defendant was negligent in driving too fast for conditions. Plaintiff claimed he sustained neck and back injuries as a direct result of this accident. Defendant admitted he struck plaintiff’s vehicle, but argued that he was faced with a sudden emergency due to the icy road conditions. Defendant contended that plaintiff had significant pre-existing degenerative spinal disease. Parties reached an $8,000 settlement prior to trial.
Location: Gaston County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Foster v. Hogue, 11-CVS-3959
Type of Injury: Back injury-Herniated discs
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $8,300
Case Summary: Plaintiff, an 82 year-old male, was driving his vehicle when it was struck by a vehicle driven by defendant William. The accident occurred in an intersection. Plaintiff claimed he suffered multiple herniated discs as a result of the collision. Defendant admitted simple negligence for his failure to stop at a stop sign and the issue of damages proceeded to trial. Plaintiff maintained that, as a result of the injuries, he would continue to suffer ongoing pain. Defendant contended that plaintiff’s condition was pre-existing and disputed the nature and severity of his claims. The jury returned a plaintiff verdict, awarding him $8,300 in damages.
Location: Vance County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Jackson v. Jennings, 2006 CVS 00382
Type of Injury: Back injuries-Cervical and lumbar soft tissue injuries; Others-hip, buttocks and right leg pain
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $8,505
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating her vehicle and came to a stop when she was rear-ended by defendant, who was traveling approximately 15 mph. Plaintiff’s vehicle sustained minor property damage. Plaintiff claimed sustained Cervical and lumbar soft tissue injuries. Plaintiff also complained of hip, low back, buttocks and right leg pain. Plaintiff sued defendant for negligence, contending that defendant operated her vehicle in a negligent manner by failing to keep a proper lookout and failing to reduce her speed. Defendant admitted liability, but contested causation and the amount of plaintiff’s damages. A settlement of $8,505 was reached between the parties before trial.
Location: Gaston County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Virgil v. Berry, 07-CVS-5648
Type of Injury: Back injury-Soft tissue cervical and lumbar injuries
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $10,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving her vehicle, while at an intersection controlled by a traffic light, defendant attempted to make a left turn in front of plaintiff’s oncoming vehicle, resulting in a collision. Plaintiff’s vehicle overturned and was totaled. Plaintiff sustained soft tissue injuries for which she treated for three months. She claimed occasional ongoing pain. Plaintiff sued defendant for negligence, claiming that defendant failed to yield the right-of-way and was responsible for this accident. Defendant admitted liability for causing the accident, but disputed the nature and extent of plaintiff’s injuries. Defendant maintained that plaintiff exaggerated her complaints. Jury returned a $10,000 verdict in favor of plaintiff.
Location: Beaufort County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Maness v. Jackson, 2008CVS000496
Type of Injury: Back injury-Aggravation of pre-existing left-sided cervical condition
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $10,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff’s vehicle was rear-ended by defendant while stopped at a red light. Plaintiff had left-sided cervical pain from a prior automobile accident for which he underwent implantation of a spinal cord stimulator. Plaintiff the subsequent accident caused a shift in the electrodes in his spinal cord stimulator, which then had to be removed but re-implantation was not possible due to scar tissue build-up. Plaintiff claimed that defendant driver failed to stop in time and was driving too close behind plaintiff’s vehicle. Defendants admitted liability but maintained that this accident could not have caused plaintiff any injury. Parties settled the claim for $10,000 prior to the start of trial.
Location: Gaston County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Inscoe v. Young, 07-CVS-4608
Type of Injury: Back and neck injuries-Cervical, thoracic and lumbar soft tissue injuries; cervicalgia (neck pain)
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $11,885
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving his vehicle on a highway. Defendant, who was operating his vehicle, exited a motel parking lot in front of plaintiff’s oncoming vehicle, resulting in a collision. Plaintiff sustained cervical, thoracic and lumbar soft tissue injuries and cervicalgia (neck pain). Plaintiff required physical therapy and chiropractic treatment. He sought $5,328 in past medicals and $3,300 in lost wages. Plaintiff claimed that defendant failed to keep a proper lookout and failed to yield the right-of-way. Defendant admitted liability at trial, but contended that plaintiff exaggerated his injuries and had fully recovered. Jury awarded plaintiff $8,914 in damages, plus $ 2,971 in attorney fees.
Location: Buncombe County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Anders v.Ogle, 05-CVS-2182
Type of Injury: Back injury-Soft tissue cervical and lumbar injuries; soft tissue shoulder injuries
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $12,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving her vehicle with the right-of-way at an intersection. She was broadsided by a vehicle driven by defendant. Plaintiff sustained neck and back injuries, but also claimed a chronic ulnar nerve injury. Defendant admitted that he failed to stop for a red light and struck plaintiff’s vehicle. Defendant contended that plaintiff’s ulnar nerve injury pre-existed this accident, as evidenced by medical records. The plaintiff acknowledged a prior injury to the same nerve, for which she had undergone surgery, but maintained this was a new injury. Defendant did not dispute that plaintiff may have sustained minor neck and back injuries. Jury returned a $12,000 verdict for the plaintiff.
Location: Henderson County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Frazier v. Morin, 09CVS318
Type of Injury: Aggravated neck and lower back ailments and facial twitch/tick
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $12,300
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving a vehicle with her minor daughter as a passenger. Plaintiff attempted to make a left turn when her vehicle was struck by defendant. Plaintiffs had a green turn arrow and defendant admittedly ran a red light. He claimed he attempted to stop when he realized the light was red, but he hit the accelerator instead of the brake. Plaintiff suffered an exacerbation of neck and lower back ailments while her daughter suffered an exacerbation of a facial twitch/tick. Plaintiffs claimed they sustained injuries as a direct result of this accident. Defendant disputed damages. The case resulted in pre-trial settlements in $9,800 to plaintiff driver and $2,500 to her daughter.
Location: Gaston County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Ballard v. Blackwell, 09-CVS-6164
Type of Injury: Back injury-Lumbar Vertebra Fracture
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $13,500
Case Summary: The vehicle in which plaintiff was a passenger and driven by defendant was involved in a motor vehicle accident. Plaintiff suffered a mild L2 compression fracture, umbilicus abrasions and abdominal pain and tenderness. Plaintiff through his guardian sued defendant for negligence. Plaintiff claimed defendant failed to use prudent and reasonable care in the operation of his vehicle. Defendant denied liability. Parties reached settlement in amount of $13,500; $3,375 paid for legal fees, $61.75 covered costs, $4,530 for medical lien, and the remaining $5,533.25 was disbursed to clerk of the court for the benefit of plaintiff until he attained the age of 18.
Location: Johnston County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Hewett v. Krasinski, 2014-CVS-001730
Type of Injury: Back injury-herniated lumbar disc at L4-L5; Soft tissue cervical and shoulder injuries.
Type of Accident: Head-On
Award/Settlement Amount: $14,750
Case Summary: Plaintiff and defendant were operating their respective vehicles on the same road, but in opposite directions. Defendant crossed left of center while rounding a curve and struck plaintiff’s vehicle head-on. Plaintiff claimed she sustained aggravation of pre-existing low back injuries, as well as neck and shoulder injuries. Plaintiff suffered from scoliosis as a child and had a Harrington rod inserted in her spine. She claimed this accident destabilized that rod and caused new soft tissue injuries. Plaintiff claimed that defendant caused this accident by his inattention and negligence. Defendants contended that plaintiff’s low back injuries pre-existed this accident. The parties resolved the case prior to trial for $14,750.
Location: Gaston County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Brewer v. Black, 08-CVS-6452
Type of Injury: Back injuries-Cervical and lumbar strain/sprain and multiple contusions
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $15,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was stopped in the roadway waiting to make a left turn onto a side road when defendant attempted to exit the same side road across two lanes of traffic and struck plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff sustained injuries to her lumbar and cervical regions. Plaintiff sued defendant claiming defendant failed to maintain a proper lookout and failed to yield the right-of-way when he negligently drove his vehicle into her car. Defendant admitted liability, but claimed plaintiff’s complaints predated the accident. Plaintiff maintained the accident significantly aggravated her condition and maintained that the extensive treatment she received after the accident was necessitated by the collision. The case was settled for $15,000.
Location: Cabarrus County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Stegall v. Dufour, 05 CVS 00 2447
Type of Injury: Back injury-soft tissue cervical injuries
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $15,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving her vehicle through an intersection when she collided with a vehicle being driven by defendant. Defendant’s vehicle was owned by co-defendant. Plaintiff claimed to have suffered a cervical injury that evolved into a back injury. She presented expert testimony from her orthopedic surgeon that supported this claim. Plaintiff claimed defendant driver failed to maintain control of his vehicle and failed to make a proper stop at the intersection where the accident occurred. She argued defendants’ vehicle was protruding into the intersection which caused her to strike the vehicle. Defendants admitted liability, but disputed the nature and severity of plaintiff’s injury claim. Jury awarded plaintiff $15,000.
Location: Caldwell County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Landies v. Williams, 2004 CVS 001342
Type of Injury: Back injury-annular tear to the lumbar spine; Soft tissue sprain/strain injury to the neck; post-traumatic headaches
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $18,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was a passenger in a car driven by her son when they were struck from behind by defendant. Plaintiff claimed she sustained back and neck injuries and post-traumatic headaches as a direct result of defendant’s negligence. Plaintiff also claimed a permanent injury due to an annular tear in her lumbar spine. Plaintiff sued defendant and sought more than $46,000 in past and future medical expenses. Plaintiff’s son sustained soft tissue injuries and filed a separate lawsuit. Defendant admitted liability, but disputed proximate cause. Defendant argued that plaintiff had pre-existing conditions stemming from a work accident, involving a low back injury. Jury awarded $18,000 to plaintiff.
Location: Anson County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Pratt v. Furr, 2009 CVS 000206
Type of Injury: Back injuries-soft tissue cervical and lumbar injuries
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $18,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving her vehicle in a commercial area. Defendant, who was operating her own vehicle attempted a left turn into a mall parking lot in front of plaintiff’s oncoming vehicle. Defendant collided with plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff sustained soft tissue cervical and lumbar injuries for which she sought emergency and chiropractic treatment. Her injures resolved after a period of time. She sought economic and non-economic damages for her injuries. Defendant disputed fault and argued that plaintiff was speeding. Defendant had no proof that plaintiff was speeding and the Court directed a verdict for plaintiff on the issue of liability. Jury awarded plaintiff $18,000.
Location: Beaufort County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Smith v. Woodward, 2008CVS001060
Type of Injury: Back injury- Cervical disc, cervical discectomy and a lumbar strain
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $20,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was stopped at an intersection when defendant failed to stop his vehicle and struck plaintiff’s car in the rear. Plaintiff suffered cervical disc injuries with a subsequent cervical discectomy and lumbar strain. Plaintiff claimed defendant negligently drove into the rear of her vehicle. Plaintiff maintained that defendant, an anesthesiologist, had been on duty and had only one hour of sleep in the 36 hours preceding the collision. Plaintiff claimed defendant was disoriented due to lack of sleep and was unable to determine the fact that traffic in front of him had stopped for the red light. Defendant admitted liability but disputed the severity of the accident. Jury awarded plaintiff $ 20,000.
Location: Iredell County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Baker v. Biehler, 002 CVS 2237
Type of Injury: Back injury-Cervical disc bulge
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $22,500
Case Summary: Plaintiff was riding as a passenger in a motor vehicle when defendant who was operating his own vehicle, attempted to make a left turn in front of plaintiff’s host vehicle and the two automobiles collided. Plaintiff sustained a cervical disc bulge as a result of the accident. Plaintiff claimed defendant made an improper left turn in front of her host vehicle. She claimed defendant was negligent in failing to maintain a proper lookout, maintain control of his vehicle and yield the right-of-way. Plaintiff sued defendant and asserted claims for medical expenses and pain and suffering. Defendant conceded liability but disputed plaintiff’s personal injury claim. Jury returned a plaintiff verdict.
Location: Surry County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Pegues v. Flippin, 2006 CVS 00075
Type of Injury: Shoulder injury-rotator cuff; Right-sided elbow injury
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $26,544
Case Summary: Plaintiff was a passenger in Defendant’s vehicle. Defendant failed to stop at a red light and was struck by another vehicle on the right passenger side. Plaintiff complained of right shoulder pain at the scene of the accident and later underwent rotator cuff surgery. Plaintiff sued defendant for negligence, claiming that her rotator cuff injury and subsequent surgery were directly related to this accident. Defendant admitted liability for the accident, but disputed the cause of plaintiff’s injury. Jury returned a plaintiff verdict. Plaintiff’s motion for costs settled in the amount of $3,456, bringing the total amount of the recovery to $ 30,000.
Location: Orange County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Lytle v. Venture Equities, 02-CVS-1092
Type of Injury: Back injury-herniated lumbar disc
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $36,370
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving his vehicle on a multilane roadway. Traffic was stopped in an adjacent lane, but clear for plaintiff. Defendant who was operating her vehicle, was waved through traffic stopped in the adjacent lane. Her vehicle was grazed by plaintiff. Neither party saw the other vehicle prior to impact. Plaintiff claimed he sustained a herniated lumbar disc. He underwent fusion surgery and made a full recovery. Defendant admitted she should not have relied upon another driver to wave her through traffic but disputed plaintiff’s claim of injury. Defendant contended that this was a minor accident with virtually no property damage. Jury returned a $30,000 verdict for plaintiff.
Location: Durham County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Vargas v. Eernisse, 2008CVS005110
Type of Injury: Head injury-Contusion, Post Concussion Syndrome and headaches
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $49,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was involved in two separate motor vehicle accidents. In the first, plaintiff’s vehicle was struck broadside by the female defendant’s vehicle at an intersection. In the second accident, plaintiff’s vehicle was struck from the rear by the male defendant’s vehicle as he stopped for traffic on a public roadway. Plaintiff suffered a head contusion that resulted in a concussion, with post-concussion syndrome and headaches. Plaintiff sued defendants for negligence. Plaintiff further claimed defendant failed to yield the right-of-way, and that co-defendant failed to maintain an assured clear distance. Defendants admitted liability but disputed the extent of plaintiff’s injuries. Jury found for plaintiff.
Location: Buncombe County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Bowman v. Cameron, 005CVS002723
Type of Injury: Head injury-aggravation of pre-existing closed head injury; amnesia and headaches
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $49,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving his vehicle when it was T-boned by a vehicle driven by defendant. He was then involved in a low speed rear-end accident 18 days later with a vehicle driven by co-defendant. Plaintiff claimed he sustained a closed head injury in the first accident that was exacerbated by the second accident. Defendant did not vigorously contest liability for the first accident but disputed that the accident caused plaintiff’s closed head injury. Co-defendant vigorously disputed liability for the second accident and asserted that this minor second accident did not cause plaintiff’s injury. Plaintiff settled for a total of $49,000; $34,000 from Defendant and $15,000 from Co-defendant.
Location: Buncombe County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Bowman v. Belaunzaran , 005CVS002723
Type of Injury: Shoulder injury-Torn rotator cuff; Rib injuries- fractures and contusions
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $63,518
Case Summary: Plaintiff was a passenger in a vehicle which was sideswiped by a vehicle driven by Defendant. The accident occurred at an intersection and defendant had been driving in the opposite direction of the plaintiff. Plaintiff suffered a torn rotator cuff and fractured ribs as a direct result of this accident. Plaintiff sued defendant for failing to keep a proper lookout and failure to stop for a traffic signal. Additionally, plaintiff claimed that defendant was operating his vehicle while intoxicated. Defendant admitted liability, but disputed the value of plaintiff’s damages. Jury awarded plaintiff $50,000 in punitive damages; $4,088 for past medicals; and $ 9,430 for lost wages.
Location: Wake County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: White v. Jackson, 99CVS007363
Severe crash injuries include multiple bone fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and potentially crippling neck and back damage. Severe injury victims may not be able to return to their pre-accident employment or activities of daily living.
Case Name and Docket Number: Morales v. Drake, 05CVS8088
Type of Injury: Leg injury-Fractured left talus and cartilage, lacerations to the right knee-cartilage transplant from the knee; Others-chest trauma-necrosis, soft tissue neck injuries and numerous contusions and abrasions
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $97,808
Case Summary: Plaintiff and defendant were operating their respective vehicles in opposite directions on the same road. Defendant attempted to make a left turn into a residential subdivision in front of plaintiff’s oncoming vehicle, resulting in a collision. Plaintiff’s ankle was crushed in the process. Plaintiff’s injuries included a displaced fracture to the talus and cartilage in the left ankle, chest trauma, lacerations to the right knee and left arm. Plaintiff claimed a permanent disability to his leg and walked with a distinct limp. Defendant admitted liability but disputed the nature and extent of plaintiff’s injuries. Jury awarded plaintiff $90,000 plus pre-judgment interest and court costs for a total judgment of $ 97,808.
Location: Wake County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Bobbitt v. Beehler, 03-CVS-7332
Type of Injury: Head injury-Cerebral Palsy, brain damage, cognition impairment and learning disability
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $100,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating her motor vehicle when a vehicle driven by defendant pulled out in front of her, leaving insufficient time to avoid a collision between the front of her car and the side of defendant’s vehicle. Plaintiff was seven and one half months pregnant at the time. When her son was born, he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy that doctors would attribute to the trauma caused by the automobile accident. Plaintiff sued defendant on behalf of her infant son for negligence. Plaintiff claimed that defendant pulled out in front of her without due caution. Defendant conceded liability. Parties settled for $100,000, which was the entire amount of the available insurance coverage.
Location: Gaston County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Burnett v. Lopez, 13 CVS 4419
Type of Injury: Neck injury-Soft tissue injury and degenerative disc disease
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $105,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating his vehicle eastbound in the middle of six lanes when defendant motorist attempted to enter traffic from a private driveway and collided with a non-party vehicle approaching from his left. The non-party vehicle lost control and collided with plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff claimed a permanent soft tissue neck injury which would require the ongoing use of anti-inflammatory medication as a result of the accident. Plaintiff sued defendant, claiming that defendant failed to keep a proper lookout and yield the right-of-way. Defendant did not dispute liability for this accident, but heavily disputed damages. Jury returned a verdict of $105,000 in favor of the Plaintiff.
Location: Gaston County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Bostic v. Kingwood, 02CVS1162
Type of Injury: Shoulder injury-diabetic frozen shoulder and a torn rotator cuff
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $105,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff’s vehicle was stopped in traffic and was rear-ended by a vehicle driven by defendant. Plaintiff, a diabetic, was taken to a local emergency room because he was feeling dizzy after the accident. Plaintiff later claimed he experienced shoulder pain and was diagnosed with diabetic frozen shoulder and a torn rotator cuff. He eventually underwent two surgeries. Plaintiff argued that this accident caused his shoulder injuries. Plaintiff claimed he had no complaints prior to this accident. Defendant admitted liability but contended that plaintiff’s shoulder complaints were unrelated to this accident. Jury awarded plaintiff $86,169, plus interest and costs for a judgment in excess of $ 105,000.
Location: Wake County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Robinson v. Hahn, 09-CVS-5897
Type of Injury: Back fractures at L2, L3 and L4 and abdominal injuries with internal bleeding.
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $136,654
Case Summary: Plaintiff was a 10-year-old male. He was a passenger in a vehicle which was rear-ended by a vehicle driven by one of the defendants. Plaintiff sustained multiple back fractures and abdominal injuries with internal bleeding as a result of this accident. Plaintiff through his guardian filed a complaint against defendants for negligence, contending that the defendant driver failed to keep a proper lookout and maintain an assured clear distance. Defendants admitted liability but disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiff’s claimed damages. Parties agreed to settle this case prior to trial for $136,654 in favor of the Plaintiff.
Location: Mecklenburg County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Phifer v. Drake, 00CVS5421
Type of Injury: Collapsed lung, fractured shoulder, head laceration and soft tissue cervical and lumbar injuries
Type of Accident: Single Vehicle
Award/Settlement Amount: $200,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff and defendant were in a vehicle together. Defendant had been drinking. There was a dispute as to who was driving the vehicle, but whomever was driving lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle went off the roadway and overturned in a ditch. Defendant got out of the vehicle and left the scene of the accident. When investigating officers arrived on the scene, they found plaintiff sitting in the passenger seat with the seat belt fastened. He sustained a collapsed lung, fractured shoulder and other injuries. Plaintiff claimed that defendant was driving the vehicle and caused the accident. Defendants contended that plaintiff was driving the vehicle. Jury found in favor of the plaintiff and awarded him $200,000.
Location: Wake County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Jones v. Hooker, 2006-CVS-015657
Type of Injury: Leg injury-Tibial plateau and patella fractures of the right leg
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $220,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating a vehicle. Defendant was operating a dump truck in the opposite direction of the plaintiff. At an intersection, defendant attempted to make a left turn in front of plaintiff’s oncoming vehicle, resulting in a collision. Plaintiff sustained severe leg fractures which necessitated surgery as a result of this accident. Plaintiff sued defendant for negligence, contending that the defendant failed to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic. Plaintiff claimed $ 89,233 in past medical expenses and $ 300,000 in future medical expenses. Defendants denied liability, but agreed to settle this claim prior to trial for $ 220,000 in favor of plaintiff.
Location: Mecklenburg County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Walters v. Boggs Transport, 99CVS9721
Type of Injury: Closed head injury; Hand injuries-Multiple fractures in right hand and wrist; Leg injuries-mid-line right femur fracture
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $225,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was a passenger in a vehicle driven by her husband when they came upon a tractor-trailer which had begun to slow due to an accident at the intersection. Plaintiff’s husband was unable to stop in time and struck the rear of the truck. Plaintiff sustained multiple fractures in right hand and wrist which required surgery, a mid-line right femur fracture necessitating an open reduction with internal fixation and a closed head injury. Plaintiff sued defendants for negligence claiming the truck did not have running lights or tail lights to warn oncoming motorists. Defendants denied liability. Parties later agreed to a mediated settlement for $225,000.
Location: Wake County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Yager v. Morgan Enterprises, 02CVS10942
Type of Injury: Back injury-Cervical spine injury; Aggravated Quadriplegia
Type of Accident: Single Vehicle
Award/Settlement Amount: $250,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was being returned to his apartment by Defendant, a medical transportation service. Plaintiff was in his wheelchair inside defendant’s van when the wheelchair tipped over as defendant’s driver made a left turn. Plaintiff struck his head and shoulder against the vehicle. Plaintiff sustained a partially severed spine from a prior injury and was a nearly complete quadriplegic. Plaintiff acknowledged that the injury would not be catastrophic to a normally healthy individual. However, in his case, the injury permanently increased his disability. Defendant admitted that plaintiff was not properly secured in the van. The case proceeded to trial on the issue of damages only. Jury awarded plaintiff $250,000.
Location: Wake County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Williams v. Laidlaw Transit, 2005CVS008353
Type of Injury: Thigh injury-Fractured femur; two fractured bones in the foot
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $600,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving her vehicle near a highway construction area. She slowed, but continued driving when she saw no other traffic when a truck driven by defendant pulled out in front of her from a side street. Plaintiff hit the side of the truck. She sustained a fractured femur in the collision and slammed on her brake so hard she fractured two bones in her foot. Plaintiff sued defendant for negligence. Defendant denied liability and contended he stopped at the stop sign and saw no approaching traffic. Jury reached a $500,000 plaintiff’s verdict. Plaintiff was also awarded $100,000 in interest for a total judgment of $600,000.
Location: Person County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Torain-Williams v. Whitfield, 03CV2000113
Type of Injury: Head injury-traumatic brain damage, chipped teeth and a misaligned jaw; Others-fractured ankle and injury to the left knee
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $700,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating his vehicle. He was traveling through a controlled intersection when his car was T-boned by a vehicle driven by defendant. Plaintiff sustained traumatic brain damage, fractured ankle, injury to the left knee, chipped teeth and a misaligned jaw as a direct result of this accident. Plaintiff claimed that defendant ran a red light and failed to yield the right-of-way. Defendant conceded liability at trial, but contested the majority of plaintiff’s bodily injury claims. Defendant argued that plaintiff’s knee injury was a pre-existing condition, which plaintiff sustained during his football career. Defendant also disputed that the plaintiff suffered a brain injury. Jury awarded plaintiff $700,000 in damages.
Location: Wake County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Richardson v. McFarland, 10CVS11603
Type of Injury: Back injury-fractured cervical vertebra at C5-C6, spinal cord damage with quadriparesis; an ankle sprain.
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $750,000
Case Summary: Defendant was operating a vehicle west in a line of cars on a Highway. An oil recovery truck was behind her, followed by Plaintiff in a tow truck. Plaintiff attempted to pass the oil recovery truck and defendant’s vehicle. At the same time, defendant made an attempt to pass a tow truck. Plaintiff swerved to the left to avoid a collision, hit a mailbox and a light pole. Plaintiff’s truck overturned and landed on its top. Plaintiff was hanging upside down and was trapped inside the vehicle. Plaintiff sustained a fractured cervical vertebra at C5-C6, spinal cord damage with quadriparesis and an ankle sprain. Plaintiff sued defendant for negligence. Defendant denied plaintiff’s allegations. Jury awarded plaintiff $750,000.
Location: Davie County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Johnson v. Harrison, 06-CVS-872
Type of Injury: Closed head injury; Back injury-torn spinal ligaments with splaying of the spine at T11-T12; fractured humerus in left arm and fractured leg
Type of Accident: Single Vehicle
Award/Settlement Amount: $1,000,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff and 11 other military recruits were passengers in a van driven by Defendant. Co-defendant was operating a tractor-trailer ahead of the van. Defendant pulled into the left lane to pass the tractor-trailer but truck driver started to move the truck to the left. Upon observing the van in the left lane, the truck moved back to the right. Apparently startled, defendant attempted to move back behind the tractor-trailer and lost control of the van. The van veered off the road, spun and flipped over several times. Plaintiff sustained a closed head injury, torn spinal ligaments with splaying of the spine at T11-T12 and other injuries requiring multiple surgical repairs. Parties agreed to a mediated settlement of $1,000,000.
Location: Forsyth County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Tillman v. Wrights, 03CVS5757
Type of Injury: Back injury-Spinal Nerve Injury
Type of Accident: Head-On
Award/Settlement Amount: $1,875,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff’s pickup truck was struck head-on by the co-defendant’s truck, operated by defendant on a public roadway in the course and scope of his employment. Plaintiff suffered aggravation of his pre-existing spinal injury, requiring surgical repair to replace the previously inserted hardware and a second procedure to fuse the spine from T10 to S1. Plaintiff sued defendants contending that defendant failed to keep a proper lookout and operated the truck in a negligent manner. Defendants admitted liability but claimed that the disability suffered by plaintiff was due to a previous motor vehicle accident. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict. Plaintiff’s award was reduced to $1,130,000 pursuant to a pre-trial high-low agreement.
Location: Craven County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Mauro v. Emerson, 06 CVS 846
Type of Injury: Leg injuries-right femur fracture, left tibial plateau fracture, crushed left foot fracture; Hand injuries right wrist fracture and multiple contusions and abrasions
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $3,250,000
Case Summary: Defendant failed to stop at an intersection controlled by a stop sign and struck the vehicle in which plaintiff was a passenger. Plaintiff sustained multiple fractures and was disabled pending future surgery to her lower extremities. Plaintiff sued defendant, claiming past and future medical expenses, lost wages and future health insurance premiums. Plaintiff claimed her injuries resulted in a significant increase in insurance premiums and that she would have been able to secure health insurance at a more affordable rate had it not been for these injuries. Defendant admitted liability but disputed the damages claimed by plaintiff. Parties settled the claim against defendant at mediation for $3,250,000.
Location: Orange County, North Carolina
Case Name and Docket Number: Barboza v. Doe, 03CVS715
Averages are calculated by adding the payouts for a group of cases, then dividing by the total number of cases in the group.
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