How Much is Your Claim Worth?
How Much is Your Claim Worth?
See actual compensation paid to car accident victims in Ohio. Find personal injury cases similar to yours.
More than 68,000 traffic accidents with injuries or fatalities occur in Ohio every year.¹ If you or a loved one are injured in a collision, you can pursue compensation.
The average car accident settlement for a moderate injury claim in Ohio is $19,820. Average payouts range from $5,226 for minor injuries to $316,574 for severe injuries.
We analyzed a sampling of Ohio cases filed by people injured in various types of vehicle accidents. Each plaintiff in the group received a court award, arbitration award, or settled their case before trial.
Average Payout by Severity of Injury |
|
|---|---|
| Minor Injury | $5,226 |
| Moderate Injury | $19,820 |
| Severe Injury | $306,574 |
Payout Range by Severity of Injury |
|
| Minor Injury | $1,440 – $9,720 |
| Moderate Injury | $10,000 – $43,564 |
| Severe Injury | $44,490 – $3,750,000 |
Our sample group includes a variety of accident scenarios. Nationwide, 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 | $4,821 |
| Moderate Injury | $21,580 |
| Severe Injury | $106,316 |
Average Rear-End Accident Settlements |
|
| Minor Injury | $5,350 |
| Moderate Injury | $16,869 |
| Severe Injury | $864,398 |
Our sample cases include a range of injuries, from mild muscle sprains to severe brain damage and spinal cord injuries. Most accident victims can expect to settle in the moderate payout range.
Neck and back injuries are the most common injury in all types of accidents, followed by head injuries. Victims of serious accidents often sustain multiple injuries. Insurance settlements and jury awards are intended to compensate the claimant for all their damages, not just one specific injury.
Average Neck and Back Injury Settlements |
|
|---|---|
| Minor Injury | $5,747 |
| Moderate Injury | $20,289 |
| Severe Injury | $410,548 |
Average Head Injury Settlements |
|
| Minor Injury | $6,216 |
| Moderate Injury | $26,305 |
| Severe Injury | $650,553 |
Ohio is a traditional fault or “tort” state, meaning you have the right to pursue compensation directly from the negligent party. Usually, that means filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s auto insurance company.
An easy way to estimate a fair injury settlement is the multiple method. Add up all your economic damages, like medical bills, lost wages, and out-of-pocket expenses. Then add one to three times that amount to compensate for your non-economic damages, commonly known as pain and suffering.
Severe injury claims should be evaluated by an experienced personal injury attorney. The attorney will work to ensure you are fairly compensated for future medical expenses, loss of income-earning capacity, the long-term pain and suffering that results from serious injuries.
A moderate car accident settlement in Ohio averages $19,820. Your settlement payout should be enough to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, out-of-pocket expenses, and pain and suffering.
Ohio has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims arising from a vehicle accident. Adults must must settle their claim or file a lawsuit within two years of the accident date.
No. Ohio is a traditional fault or “tort” state. You can pursue compensation for your car accident damages from the at-fault driver. You are not required to start with a claim on your own insurance policy like in a no-fault state.
It is illegal to drive without insurance in Ohio. Offenders will lose their driving license and vehicle registrations. Fines and fees range from $100 to $600.
Ohio Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit attorneys from charging an excessive fee. Personal injury attorneys customarily charge a contingency fee between 33 and 40 percent of the final compensation they recover on your behalf.
Moderate car accident injuries include more extensive soft-tissue injuries, uncomplicated fractures, whiplash injuries, and slipped or herniated discs. Recovery may take weeks or months, and the victim may be out of work during recovery, depending on the physical demands of their job.
Type of Injury: Thoracic injury-Muscle spasms and thoracic outlet syndrome
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $10,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that she was involved in a motor vehicle accident when defendant operated his vehicle in a negligent manner and collided into her vehicle. Plaintiff allegedly suffered Muscle spasms and thoracic outlet syndrome. Plaintiff sued defendant claiming she sustained injuries and medical expenses in excess of $25,000. Plaintiff’s husband joined the suit claiming loss of spousal and parental consortium. Defendant admitted an accident occurred, but denied all other allegations. Jury returned its verdict in favor of plaintiff. Plaintiff filed a motion for new trial asserting she gave undisputed testimony as to her post-accident pain and suffering and jury failed to award her accordingly. Judge overruled plaintiff’s motion.
Location: Montgomery County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Fife v. Bond, 2004 CV 6941
Type of Injury: Back injuries-Cervical/Lumbar Strain
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $10,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed that the work truck that he operated, designed to clean out portable toilets, was struck from the rear by a vehicle operated by the male defendant on a public roadway. Plaintiff contended that he suffered cervical and lumbar strains as a result of the collision. Plaintiff filed a complaint against defendant, asserting that the defendant operated the vehicle in a negligent manner, failed to keep a proper lookout, and failed to maintain an assured clear distance. Defendant admitted liability but disputed the plaintiff’s injuries and contended that the plaintiff was in an earlier motor vehicle accident in which his vehicle overturned. Jury found for plaintiff.
Location: Delaware County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Hooper v. Raymond, 90712
Type of Injury: Soft tissue injuries to back
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $10,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff and defendant reportedly were traveling westbound when traffic up ahead came to an abrupt stop and defendant was unable to stop his vehicle in time to prevent a collision with the rear of plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff claimed she sustained soft tissue injuries to her back. Plaintiff sued defendant for negligence. Defendant denied the plaintiff’s claims, contending plaintiff’s damages, if any, were caused by an intervening and/or superseding cause over which he had no control. The matter went to arbitration and the panel found in favor of the plaintiff and awarded her $3,000. Plaintiff appealed the arbitrators’ decision. Jury found in favor of plaintiff and awarded her $10,000.
Location: Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Terry v. Kovar, 457913
Type of Injury: Soft tissue cervical (neck) strain with contusions; aggravation of preexisting degenerative disc disease
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $10,700
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving her vehicle. She came to a stop and was rear-ended by a vehicle driven by Defendant. The impact forced plaintiff’s vehicle into the rear of the car in front of her. Defendant admitted liability for causing the accident and the case proceeded on the issues of causation and damages. Plaintiff alleged she sustained new soft tissue neck strain with contusions as well as aggravation of preexisting degenerative disc disease, as a direct result of this accident. Defendant contended that this minor accident did not cause any significant injury. Defendant acknowledged that plaintiff may have sustained a soft tissue neck sprain, but argued that she should have recovered within several weeks of the accident. Defendant maintained that other continuing symptoms or complaints were related to her prior degenerative condition. Jury returned a $10,700 verdict for plaintiff.
Location: Union County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Davis v. Carvalho, 09CV0270
Type of Injury: Knee injury-Left patellar contusion and patellar tendonitis
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $10,900
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating his vehicle north on his way to work. Defendant was operating his own vehicle westbound toward the same road on which plaintiff was traveling. As defendant reached the intersection, he made a left turn in front of plaintiff’s oncoming vehicle and caused a broadside collision. Plaintiff alleged that defendant failed to stop at a red light and did not yield when he turned left at the intersection. Plaintiff alleged that he suffered a severe kneecap injury from smashing his left knee into the dashboard. Defendant admitted fault for the accident at trial, but claimed plaintiff failed to mitigate his damages. Jury awarded plaintiff awarded $10,900.
Location: Franklin County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Hiles v. Harper, 05-CVC-08-9204
Type of Injury: Neck and back injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $12,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff’s vehicle was reportedly rear-ended by a vehicle driven by defendant. Plaintiff reported that he injured his neck and back in the collision. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against defendant, accusing the defendant of negligence and causing the plaintiff’s physical pain, suffering and disability. Plaintiff also asked for reimbursement for medical expenses and lost wages. The defendant admitted to a collision with the plaintiff’s car, but he denied all other allegations made in the complaint. He later stated in a trial brief he intended to admit negligence in causing the accident. A jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff and awarded him $12,000 for his damages.
Location: Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Stuart v. Carpenter, CV-03-492545
Type of Injury: Neck and back injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $14,354
Case Summary: Plaintiff’s vehicle was allegedly rear-ended by defendant. Plaintiff allegedly sustained injuries to her neck and back. Plaintiff reportedly was involved in another rear-end collision two months later with co-defendant. The second accident caused plaintiff to sustain aggravation of injuries sustained in the initial accident. Plaintiff was still receiving treatment when four months later, while a passenger in her father’s vehicle, the third named defendant’s vehicle allegedly rear-ended their vehicle. This third collision allegedly caused further aggravation of her prior injuries. Plaintiff sued defendants for negligence. Defendants denied liability. Jury returned a verdict against the three defendants and in favor of plaintiff in the amount of $14,354.25.
Location: Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Westervelt v. Hoza, 463918
Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck and back injuries; upper and lower body contusions
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $16,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving his vehicle. Defendant was exiting a gas station and struck plaintiff’s passing vehicle broadside. Defendant admitted liability for causing the accident. The case proceeded to trial on the issue of damages only. Plaintiff alleged that he sustained significant soft tissue neck and back injuries, as well as upper and lower body contusions as a direct result of this accident. Plaintiff’s wife sought damages for loss of consortium. Defendant argued that plaintiff recovered from his injuries and disputed the extent of his damage claim. The jury returned a verdict in favor of plaintiff for $16,000.
Location: Franklin County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Catalogna v. Brown, 2003CVC01-890
Type of Injury: Back injuries-herniation of C4-5; head and left arm injuries; aggravation of pre-existing clinical depression
Type of Accident: Pedestrian
Award/Settlement Amount: $18,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed she visited a store when defendant allegedly drove his vehicle into the store, causing debris to fall onto plaintiff, thus knocking her to the ground. Plaintiff reportedly sustained a herniated disc in her neck and subsequently underwent aggravation of pre-existing clinical depression. Plaintiff sued defendant’s estate, alleging defendant’s negligent driving caused her injuries, which she believed to be permanent in nature. Defendant’s legal representative admitted defendant drove his vehicle into the store but denied plaintiff sustained injuries from the accident, asserting her negligence wholly or partially caused her alleged injuries. Jury found for plaintiff, awarding her $18,000 in compensatory damages.
Location: Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Homan v. Bakos, 529654
Type of Injury: Neck injury-a herniated cervical disc at C6-C7; lower back strain; carpal tunnel syndrome in the left wrist
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $20,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating a vehicle. While stopped at an intersection controlled by traffic light, her automobile was rear-ended by a vehicle driven by Defendant. Defendant admitted liability. Plaintiff alleged she sustained a herniated cervical disc at C6-C7, lower back strain, carpal tunnel syndrome in the left wrist and ongoing problems with all of these areas of the body. She claimed disability and pain for the rest of her life. Plaintiff’s medical experts opined that all of plaintiff’s injuries, problems and disabilities were due to this motor vehicle accident. Defendant contended that, at worst, plaintiff only sustained a minor soft tissue injury that should have resolved in six to eight weeks. Defendant also contended the bulk of plaintiff’s treatment was unnecessary and not related to the auto crash. Plaintiff ultimately agreed to settle her claims for $20,000.
Location: Lorain County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Sturgeon v. Livingston, 05CV144642
Type of Injury: Soft tissue cervical, lumbar and hip injuries
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $20,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff, 70, was driving her vehicle. Upon entering an intersection, her vehicle was struck broadside by a vehicle driven by defendant. The impact of the collision caused plaintiff’s vehicle to overturn. Plaintiff alleged that defendant failed to yield the right-of-way and failed to keep a proper lookout. Defendant admitted liability for the accident. Plaintiff was treated for a rotator cuff tear, for which reverse shoulder replacement surgery was required. She also claimed soft tissue cervical, lumbar and hip injuries. Defendant contended that the plaintiff’s shoulder injury and surgery were unrelated to this accident. Defendant also disputed the nature and extent of other injuries. The jury found that the plaintiff’s shoulder injury was not related and the accident and awarded her damages for soft tissue injuries/treatment only. The jury award was $20,000.
Location: Auglaize County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Neuman v. Harbur, 2011 CV 0271
Type of Injury: Injuries to back, neck, head and shoulders
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $22,610
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was fifteen-years-old when the vehicle she was riding in was rear-ended by a car driven by defendant. Plaintiff filed a complaint against defendant, alleging defendant’s negligent driving caused the accident in which she sustained injuries to her back, neck, head, and shoulders; past and future disability; more than $28,000 in medical expenses; future medical expenses; lost earning capacity; and lost enjoyment of life. Defendant denied negligence, asserting affirmative defenses of contributory negligence, assumption of risk and failure to mitigate damages. A jury returned a verdict, finding the plaintiff sustained injuries as a direct and proximate result of the motor vehicle accident in the amount of $22,610.07
Location: Franklin County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Santino v. Lucente, 06-CVC-16795
Type of Injury: Back Injuries- Injuries to Thoracic and lumbar spine; Other- wrists injury
Type of Accident: Head-on
Award/Settlement Amount: $24,500
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged he drove car when defendant struck him head-on. The airbags in Plaintiff’s car deployed causing injuries to his thoracic and lumbar spine and wrists. Plaintiff and his wife filed a lawsuit against defendant, alleging defendant’s driving was careless and negligent, in part because he was operating his vehicle under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Plaintiff’s wife claimed her loss of consortium. Defendant denied liability. However, in his pre-trial statement, the defendant admitted the collision occurred, but disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiffs’ injuries. Jury returned a verdict in favor of plaintiff driver only and awarded him $24,500 in compensatory damages.
Location: Warren County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: LaCombe v. Ramstetter, 04CV62636
Type of Injury: Back injuries-Cervical/Lumbar Strain, Herniated Disc and Headaches; Aggravated Wrist Injury; Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $25,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed that she was involved in two separate motor vehicle accidents. In the first accident, the plaintiff’s vehicle was struck from the rear by defendant’s vehicle as she slowed for traffic. In the second accident, the plaintiff’s vehicle was struck from the rear by co-defendant’s vehicle. Plaintiff alleged she suffered carpal tunnel syndrome that required surgery, a disc herniation, headaches, cervical and lumbar strains, and an aggravation of a pre-existing wrist injury. Plaintiff sued defendants, contending defendant drivers operated their vehicles in a negligent manner. Defendants admitted liability but disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiff’s injuries. Jury returned a plaintiff verdict.
Location: Hamilton County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Collins v. Hershedy, A9903939
Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck and back injuries; aggravation of preexisting injury back injury at L5-S1 level
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $27,768
Case Summary: Plaintiff was a passenger in a pickup truck driven by her fiance. They were stopped at a red light when they were rear-ended by a vehicle driven by Defendant. Plaintiff, a nurse, alleged she presented for medical care seven days post-accident with complaints of soft tissue back and neck injuries and was prescribed physical therapy. Plaintiff voluntarily quit the physical therapy and then sought treatment with a neurologist. She ultimately underwent a discectomy/fusion surgery at L5-S1. Plaintiff acknowledged pre existing neck and back complaints, but argued that her injuries and the ultimate surgery were the direct result of this accident. Defendant admitted that she struck plaintiff’s vehicle, but claimed there were no claims of injury at the scene. Defendant argued that plaintiff’s surgery was unrelated to the accident. Jury returned a $27,768 verdict for plaintiff.
Location: Lucas County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Wells-Cole v. Escobar, CI04-4830
Type of Injury: Head, back and scarring injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $30,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged he drove his car near an intersection when defendant struck her from the rear. Plaintiff claimed she sustained injuries to her neck and back. Plaintiff sued defendant, arguing the defendant’s failure to yield the right of way constituted negligence. Plaintiff sought damages for her injuries, medical expenses including prescription and medication costs, property damage, and loss of income. Defendant denied negligence. He argued the plaintiff drove in an unlawful manner, and was therefore comparatively negligent for her injuries and damages. The case was heard by an arbitrator who found in favor of Defendant. Plaintiff appealed. Jury found in favor of plaintiff and awarded her $30,000.00 for damages.
Location: Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Baker v. Parker, 444785
Type of Injury: Chest injuries-pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness, chest contusion, fractured sternum, fractured fifth rib; sprains/strains in neck, lower and upper back; right arm numbness; bruising and swelling in foot; foot fracture
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $30,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff allegedly drove his vehicle with his wife as a passenger when defendant allegedly failed yield the right of way at a stop sign, causing a front-end collision. Plaintiff allegedly struck his chest against the steering wheel, resulting in a large contusion across his chest, difficulty breathing, dizziness and pain in his neck and back, a fractured sternum and rib. Passenger reportedly sustained neck pain and swelling in her right foot and ankle. Plaintiffs sued defendant for negligence. Defendant admitted being negligent. The case proceeded on the issues of injuries and damages. Jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiffs, awarding plaintiff $30,000 and his wife $5,500.
Location: Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: King v. McIntyre, 535961
Type of Injury: Leg injury-Fractured left tibia and fibula, left elbow contusion and abrasion, left knee contusion, sprain, abrasion ecchymosis and effusion, right ankle sprain, left ankle sprain, anterior cruciate ligament tear, avulsion injury to tibial spine of left ankle; fractured distal radius of right wrist; cervical spine injury, compression and irritation to nerve roots at C4-5, C5-6 and C6-7 of the neck
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $31,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was driving his vehicle while his sister-in-law rode as a passenger in the back seat. Defendant reportedly failed to yield the right of way at an intersection and proceeded to collide into Plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff driver and the and the passenger allegedly sustained injuries including Fractured left tibia and fibula, left elbow contusion and abrasion and left knee contusion. Plaintiffs and their spouses filed a negligence lawsuit against defendants. Defendants denied allegations of negligence. Jury determined defendants were at fault and awarded Plaintiff driver $25,000 in damages, his wife $1,000 for consortium loss, Passenger $30,000 in damages and her husband $1,000 for his loss of consortium claim.
Location: Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Plaga v. Myeress, CV 04 549205
Type of Injury: Neck and back injuries; rib fractures, lung puncture, wrist injury, chest and stomach burns, leg lacerations and broken collarbone
Type of Accident: Single Vehicle
Award/Settlement Amount: $43,564
Case Summary: Plaintiffs reportedly were passengers in a car operated by defendant when the vehicle went off the road, through tall grass, down a ditch and into a cement culvert. Plaintiff 1 reportedly sustained neck and back injuries, rib fractures, lung puncture, wrist injury, chest and stomach burns and inability to perform usual functions. Plaintiff 2 reportedly sustained leg lacerations and broken collarbone. Plaintiff’s parents filed a complaint against defendant and his mother. Plaintiffs alleged defendant’s negligent driving and his mother’s negligent entrustment were direct causes of the accident. Defendants denied negligence. Jury returned verdicts for plaintiffs, awarding plaintiff 1 $43,563.71 and Plaintiff 2 $8,285.60.
Location: Clermont County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Curran v. Busch, 2006-CVH-01768
Severe crash injuries are often life-changing, leaving the victim with permanent residual effects. Severe injuries include complicated fractures, extensive facial injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage. Severe injury victims may not be able to return to their pre-accident work or personal activities.
Type of Injury: Multiple Rib Fractures
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $44,491
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed that his vehicle was struck in the front by a vehicle operated by defendant. Plaintiff reportedly suffered three fractured ribs as a result of the collision. Plaintiff filed a complaint against defendant. The plaintiff contended the defendant suddenly placed her vehicle in reverse without any warning to other motorists. The defendant denied liability and contended the collision was a minor motor vehicle accident that occurred when the defendant, intending to turn left from the parking lot exit, had to suddenly stop when another vehicle suddenly appeared on the main road. A jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff in the amount of $44,491.60.
Location: Summit County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Lockett v. Wellington, CV-2014-09-4188
Type of Injury: Injury to right foot and leg
Type of Accident: Pedestrian
Award/Settlement Amount: $50,000
Case Summary: An accident reportedly occurred between a motor vehicle and a minor pedestrian. Plaintiff reportedly sustained injuries to his right leg and foot. Plaintiff through his father, sued defendant, asserting plaintiff sustained medical expenses of approximately $30,000, pain, discomfort, emotional distress and loss of future earning capacity. Defendant admitted an accident occurred between her vehicle and the minor but denied negligence and fault in the matter. Jury returned a plaintiff verdict. The jury further determined the minor was also negligent and assigned him 20% liability. The parties stipulated to damages of $50,000 prior to trial, which Judge reduced to $40,000 based on fault apportionment, plus legal interest and court costs.
Location: Franklin County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Lamptey v. Bah, 03cv09-10035
Type of Injury: Back, neck, spine, eyes, hips, arms and knees injuries
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $50,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff drove her car, with her husband and two minor children, as passengers. A collision allegedly occurred between plaintiff’s car and defendant’s car when the defendant’s vehicle allegedly attempted to make a left turn and drove into the plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff’s wife reportedly sustained injuries to her back, spine, eyes, left hip and right knee, while Plaintiff suffered injuries to his face, neck, right arm and leg. Their children also allegedly received injuries to their faces and hips. Plaintiffs filed a lawsuit against defendant for negligence. Defendants denied liability. Jury found in favor of plaintiffs in the amount of $200,000.
Location: Summit County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Beeman v. Kenner, CV-2003-12-7445
Type of Injury: Injuries to neck, back, arms, legs and head
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $51,208
Case Summary: Plaintiff drove his car with his wife as a passenger when defendant allegedly operated her vehicle in a negligent manner by failing to stop for a red light and drove into his car. Plaintiff stated he sustained injuries to his neck, back and arms, while his wife allegedly injured her head, neck, back and legs. Plaintiffs sued defendant. Defendant admitted she had an accident involving the plaintiffs, but denied the extent of their injuries and damages. According to the defendant, plaintiff’s wife’s condition pre-dated the accident and stemmed from her overall physical condition. Jury rendered their verdict in favor of the plaintiffs, awarding them $102,416.79.
Location: Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Dowdell v. Gray, 490504
Type of Injury: Injuries to head, hip and jaw
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $53,103
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged she was a passenger when the vehicle she rode in was involved a motor vehicle accident. Plaintiff claimed injuries to her head, hip and jaw, in addition to other unspecified injuries as a result of the accident. Plaintiff sued defendant driver for negligence, alleging that defendant’s negligence was the direct and proximate cause of her injuries. Defendant admitted that she was driving a vehicle involved in an accident with other vehicles, but denied that she was the direct and proximate cause of plaintiff’s injuries. Prior to trial, defendant admitted she was negligent. Jury returned a verdict for plaintiff, awarding her $53,103.20 in damages.
Location: Summit County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Brinson v. Baker, 2003-10-6262
Type of Injury: Injuries to spine, abdomen, chest, shoulders, limbs, wrists, right ankle and left knee
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $58,828
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged she was driving when defendant, operating a Ford Truck failed to stop at the stop sign and crashed into plaintiff’s car. Plaintiff claimed she sustained injuries to spine, abdomen, chest, shoulders, limbs, wrists, right ankle, left knee and loss of employment income. Plaintiff sued defendant driver and owner of the Truck for negligence in failing to yield the right of way, among other things. The defendants raised various affirmative defenses to plaintiff’s claims, including contributory negligence, and failure to mitigate damages. The case went to trial and a jury returned a verdict for plaintiff, awarding her $58,827.84 in damages.
Location: Hamilton County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Mason v. P-D Midwest Transport, A0105647
Type of Injury: Back injury-Low-back pain; right-arm pain; right-ankle strain; right thumb strain
Type of Accident: Head-on
Award/Settlement Amount: $65,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff and defendant reportedly were driving in opposite directions when defendant’s car crossed the median and struck two cars, one of which was Plaintiff’s. Plaintiff sued defendant claiming that the defendant’s negligent driving resulted in plaintiff sustaining serious and permanent injuries, and loss of income which resulted in her withdrawing for one semester from the University. A certified chiropractic physician who treated plaintiff for her injuries, testified that she sustained a five-percent permanent residual physical impairment due to the accident. The defendant questioned the nature, extent and permanency of the plaintiff’s injuries. The jury rendered a verdict in favor of the plaintiff in the amount of $65,000.
Location: Hamilton County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Barnard v. Meirose, A-05-06722
Type of Injury: Shoulder injury-Torn rotator cuff
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $75,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating her vehicle on a city street when she was involved in a broadside collision with defendant’s vehicle at an intersection controlled by a traffic signal. The parties disputed the facts surrounding the incident and which party had the right-of-way at the intersection. The collision occurred during the day. Plaintiff claimed that defendant ran a red light at the intersection and failed to yield to her vehicle. Plaintiff alleged that she suffered a torn rotator cuff which required surgery as a direct result of the collision. Defendant contended that the broadside collision occurred because plaintiff had run a red light at the intersection. This case settled one week prior to trial for $75,000. Per plaintiff’s counsel, the case was impacted by the fact that plaintiff had no prior medical history.
Location: Hamilton County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Kenner v. Horel, A-0105507
Type of Injury: Head, neck, chest, back and other body parts injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $95,000
Case Summary: A dump truck owned by defendant allegedly rear-ended plaintiff’s vehicle. The plaintiff alleged sustaining injuries to her head, neck, chest, back and other body parts; pain and suffering’ disability; medical expenses; an expected $50,000 in future medical expenses; past and future lost income; $20,000 in miscellaneous expenses; and lost enjoyment of life. The defendant contested the extent of the plaintiff’s injuries and alleged she had undergone a cervical fusion after a prior motor vehicle accident left her with ongoing back pain. Jury returned a verdict for the plaintiff. The panel determined plaintiff was 40% negligent and the defendant was 60% negligent. The jury awarded Plaintiff $95,000.
Location: Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Naysmith v. Ramos Trucking, CV-06-593107
Type of Injury: Back injuries-cervical disc herniation and shoulder strain
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $100,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was involved in a motor vehicle accident at an intersection when defendant allegedly failed to yield the right of way, causing a collision. Plaintiff claimed that she suffered a cervical disc herniation and a shoulder strain as a result of the accident. Plaintiff filed a negligence claim against the defendant, contending that the defendant failed to maintain proper control of his vehicle and driving too fast in the traffic conditions. The defendant denied liability, disputed the plaintiff’s injuries, and contended that they were unrelated to this accident. The defendant further contended that the plaintiff was comparatively negligent. Parties reached settlement before jury trial.
Location: Franklin County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Phillips v. Shaffer, 07-CV-815
Type of Injury: Back injury-disc herniation at L4 and L6; Closed head injury; concussion
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $125,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff, a minor driver, reportedly was involved in a motor vehicle accident that occurred at an intersection. Plaintiff allegedly was driving northbound toward an intersection, and the stop sign for northbound traffic was allegedly obstructed by foliage, resulting in a collision. Plaintiff allegedly suffered a concussion, closed head injury as well as herniated discs at L-4 and L6. Plaintiff’s parents, individually and on her behalf, filed a complaint against defendant, alleging defendant was negligent when it failed to ensure the stop sign was visible. The defendant denied the allegations and offered defenses of immunity, contributory negligence and assumption of the risk. The matter was resolved via a settlement.
Location: Lake County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Nicholson v. Ohio DOT, 2017-00135
Type of Injury: Back injuries-Herniated Disc, Lumbar Strain and headaches
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $132,500
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed she was involved in two motor vehicle accidents. In the first accident, plaintiff’s vehicle was struck from the rear by the female defendant’s vehicle as the plaintiff slowed for traffic. Plaintiff alleged that she suffered cervical disc herniations that required surgery, headaches, a lumbar strain, and emotional distress as result. In the second accident, plaintiff’s vehicle was struck from the rear by the male defendant’s vehicle as she stopped for traffic. Plaintiff sued defendants, contending defendants operated the vehicles in a negligent manner and failed to maintain an assured clear distance. Defendants admitted liability but disputed the extent of the plaintiff’s injuries. Jury returned a plaintiff verdict.
Location: Hamilton County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Littrell v. Wells, A9904645
Type of Injury: Fracture of right femoral shaft, scarring on right hip and thigh, pain in anterior knee and chondromalacia of the patella
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $180,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff allegedly rode as a passenger in defendant’s vehicle when defendant failed to stop for a stop sign at an intersection and a collision ensued. Plaintiff reportedly sustained injuries upon impact, including a broken femur. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against defendant as negligent driver and co-defendant as owner of the vehicle. She sought damages for permanent injuries, disability, lost time and employment wages and medical care. Defendant later admitted to negligently operating his vehicle, not seeing the other vehicle until impact and had no idea how fast the other vehicle traveled. Jury found in favor of plaintiff and awarded her $180,000 for all damages sustained in the accident.
Location: Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Fischer v. Forsgren, CV-04-532443
Type of Injury: Chest and abdominal pain
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $181,210
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was driving near an intersection when defendant attempted to pass her and crashed into the right side of plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff allegedly sustained chest and abdominal pain following the impact. Plaintiff sued defendant alleging defendant was solely at fault for the accident. Defendant negligence but denied the extent and alleged permanency of the plaintiff’s injuries. A jury found in favor of the plaintiff and awarded her $6,209.61 in past medical expenses, $80,000 for past and future pain and suffering, $80,000 for past and future inability to perform usual activities and $15,000 in future lost wages.
Location: Clermont County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Curry v. Chambers, 03CVC1501
Type of Injury: Head injury-permanent cognitive brain damage, U-shaped complex forehead laceration of 15 cm with permanent nerve and sensory deficits and jagged scarring, a concussion; and cervical strain
Severity Rating: Severe
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $204,558
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving his vehicle, when he was broadsided by a vehicle driven by Defendant. Defendant had exited a parking lot immediately prior to the collision. Initially, defendant maintained that plaintiff was driving without headlights and was traveling too fast for the snowy road conditions. However, defendant ultimately admitted liability for the accident. Plaintiff alleged he was seriously injured and disfigured by his accident injuries, which included permanent cognitive brain damage and a complex forehead laceration. Plaintiff claimed the head injuries occurred when he hit his head on the steering wheel. He denied he was speeding and argued that it was daylight when the accident occurred. Defendant contended plaintiff recovered from his injuries and had returned to work. Jury found in favor of plaintiff in the amount of $203,000 plus costs of $1,558 for a total judgment of $204,558.
Location: Lucas County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Nunn v. Bruno, CI04
Type of Injury: Head injury-Concussion; neck and back soft tissue injuries; cyclic vomiting syndrome, a rare gastrointestinal disorder
Type of Accident: Head-on
Award/Settlement Amount: $275,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was a passenger in a vehicle that was hit head-on by a pickup truck driven by Defendant. Defendant’s vehicle crossed the center line and collided with plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff’s head struck the windshield and she suffered a concussion and neck and back soft tissue injuries. Over the next three months, plaintiff began to experience recurring headaches and suffered an unexplained near fainting episode a year after the accident. She was ultimately diagnosed with cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS), a difficult to diagnose illness that produces periodic cycles of severe nausea and vomiting that last from hours to days with no other associative symptoms. Defendant’s expert testified that CVS could not be caused by the trauma plaintiff suffered when her head hit the windshield. The parties subsequently settled for $275,000.
Location: Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: LaRiche v. Delisio, CV 03-493623
Type of Injury: Neck injury-cervical disc herniation; lower back disc herniation; bladder injury; sexual dysfunction; aggravation of preexisting mental conditions (bipolar disorder, depression and schizophrenia)
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $300,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating his vehicle. He was involved in a multiple vehicle rear-end collision at an exit ramp. Plaintiff claimed that the chain reaction crash was triggered by defendant and that plaintiff’s vehicle was totaled in the crash. Plaintiff alleged he was permanently disabled due to cervical disc herniation requiring surgery, lower back disc herniation, bladder injury, sexual dysfunction and aggravation of preexisting mental conditions (bipolar disorder, depression and schizophrenia). Defendant did not admit liability until the beginning of trial. Defendant disputed the extent of plaintiff’s injuries and disputed whether plaintiff’s cervical surgery was necessary or related to other conditions. Following opening statements at trial, the parties to this case agreed to a $300,000 settlement.
Location: Summit County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Andears v. Propane, CV-2006-11-7600
Type of Injury: Neck injury-Herniated disc at C7; Back injury-disc bulge at S1
Type of Accident: Head-on
Award/Settlement Amount: $450,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was a front seat passenger with her husband, traveling in a vehicle northbound. Defendant, who was also traveling on same Road as plaintiff, lost control of his vehicle and struck the median. Plaintiff alleged that, after defendant struck the median, his vehicle was facing south in the northbound lanes of travel. According to plaintiff, defendant started driving south in the northbound lane, resulting in a head-on collision at a speed of 15 to 25 mph. Plaintiff claimed a herniated disc at C7 and disc bulge at S1 as a direct result of this accident. Defendant contended his car remained stationary after hitting the median and denied driving in the wrong direction. Defendant argued plaintiff’s injuries were connected to her documented complaints of preexisting neck and back soft tissue problems. Jury returned a plaintiff’s verdict for $450,000.
Location: Lucas County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Williams v. Hassan, C1035419
Type of Injury: Head injury-traumatic brain injury; Back injury-spinal cord injuries; Secondary condition known as heterotopic ossification which involved an excess buildup of calcium in his joints which rendered plaintiff unable to use his arms, legs and shoulders.
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $3,750,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was stopped in his vehicle at an intersection controlled by a traffic signal when he was rear-ended by one of Defendant’s semi-tractor trailers. The semi was traveling at approximately 55 mph when plaintiff’s vehicle was struck. The semi was carrying a load of coiled steel at the time of the collision. As a result of the collision, plaintiff suffered traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries with a secondary condition known as heterotopic ossification. That condition involved an excess buildup of calcium in his joints which rendered plaintiff unable to use his arms, legs and shoulders. As a result of these injuries, plaintiff was wheelchair bound and required constant care. Liability for the rear-end collision was not contested by the defendants. Case settled for $3,750,000 prior to trial.
Location: Trumbull County, Ohio
Case Name and Docket Number: Atkinson v. Gene’s Trucking Service, INC, 00CV1610
We analyzed a group of actual lawsuits filed in Ohio courts by plaintiffs injured in motor vehicle accidents. All the plaintiffs in our sample group received a payout from a court award, arbitration award, or by settling with the defendant before trial.
Averages are calculated by adding the payouts for a group of cases, then dividing by the number of cases in the group.
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