See actual injury payouts from Oklahoma car accident lawsuits. Look for cases similar to yours.

There are more than 61,000 crashes on Oklahoma roadways each year, with more than 27,000 people injured and 654 fatalities.¹

The average car accident settlement for a moderate injury claim in Oklahoma is $39,137. Average payouts range from $6,285 for minor injuries to $926,186 for severe injuries.

Average Oklahoma Car Accident Settlement Amounts

We analyzed a group of personal injury cases filed in Oklahoma courts by car accident victims. Each plaintiff received a payout from a judge or jury, or settled the case before trial. The victims suffered injuries ranging from minor bumps and bruises to severe spinal cord injuries.

Average Payout by Severity of Injury
Minor Injury	$6,285
Moderate Injury	$39,137
Severe Injury	$926,186
Payout Range by Type of Accident
Rear-End Collisions	$1,522 - $300,000
Side-Impact Collisions	$481 - $3,500,000*

Neck and back injuries are the most common type of injury in motor vehicle accidents. However, many serious accident victims sustain multiple injuries. Payouts are meant to compensate the person for all their damages, not just one type of injury.

This group of car accident cases includes one head-on collision with a payout of $1,506,000, and two pedestrian cases involving children hit by cars, with both payouts in excess of $1,000,000.

This group contains other extraordinarily high awards and settlements typically involving defendants who were operating a work vehicle, meaning they were insured by commercial liability policies with million-plus dollar limits.

Most car accident victims can expect to settle their claim for an amount within the minor to moderate range.

How Accident Settlements Are Calculated

You can estimate the settlement value of your injury claim by adding up your economic damages, such as medical bills, out-of-pocket expenses, and lost wages. Then add one to three times that amount to compensate for your non-economic damages, commonly called pain and suffering.

A multiple of one is appropriate for injuries like bumps, bruises, and mild sprains. A higher multiple is reasonable for more extensive injuries that interrupted your life for several weeks or months.

The value of severe injury claims must be calculated by an experienced injury attorney, who will include the value of future damages and the extreme physical and emotional suffering endured by the victim.

Other factors that influence injury payouts in Oklahoma:

• Crash Impact – Adjusters will scrutinize medical costs arising from minor fender benders, while higher medical costs are expected for victims of high-impact crashes caused by speeding, or larger, heavier vehicles.
• Shared Fault – Oklahoma is a modified comparative negligence state. If you are more to blame than the other driver, your claim will fail. If you share some blame but are not more to blame than the other driver, your compensation will be reduced according to your percentage of blame.
• Auto Policy Limits – Oklahoma requires all drivers to carry insurance no less than $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident bodily injury liability, and $25,000 property damage liability. The minimum limits will not be enough to cover severe injury claims.
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage – Oklahoma requires auto policies to include uninsured motorist coverage to protect you if the at-fault driver has no insurance, or not enough insurance to cover your injuries.
• Multiple Claimants – When more than two people are seriously injured in the same accident, the at-fault driver’s liability limits may not be enough to compensate all the victims.
• Non-Economic Damages Cap – Oklahoma limits non-economic damages in personal injury cases to $350,000, except in limited circumstances.
• Punitive Damages: Punitive damages, awarded by a jury to punish defendants who showed a wanton disregard for the rights of others, are generally limited to $100,000 or equal to the amount of actual damages awarded. Punitive damages for intentional conduct may be awarded up to $500,000.

Frequently Asked Questions

Minor Injury Case Examples

Minor car accident injuries are usually limited to soft-tissue bumps, bruises, scrapes, and sprains. Following the initial medical evaluation after the accident, most minor injury victims only need a few days of rest and over-the-counter pain relievers.  Victims might miss two or three days of work, and are fully recovered within a few weeks.

Jury Not Swayed by Parking Garage Injury Claims

Type of Injury: Head injury-Subdural hematoma; swelling in legs.
Severity Rating: Minor
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $481
Case Summary: Plaintiff drove his vehicle into a parking garage. As he was proceeding through the garage, defendant backed out of a parking space into plaintiff’s vehicle, striking it on the passenger side between the front and rear doors. Plaintiff was involved in a single vehicle accident one month earlier and a third accident three weeks later. Hospital records from the prior accident reflected head trauma, headaches and a slight concussion. Plaintiff however maintained that he suffered subdural hematoma requiring surgery, resulting in swollen legs from this accident. Defendant denied liability. He argued that plaintiff’s injuries were proximately related to prior accident. Jury returned a plaintiff verdict of $481, the amount of the emergency room charges plaintiff incurred the day following this accident.
Location: Oklahoma County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Pinon v. Burnett, CJ-2011-00092

Drunk Pickup Driver Hits Parked Plaintiff

Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck and back injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $1,522
Case Summary: Plaintiff was sitting in her pickup truck in the parking lot of a store, when another pickup truck driven by defendant backed into her truck, rear-ending it. Plaintiff said she suffered soft tissue neck and back injuries. Defendant was criminally charged for drinking and driving and punished with fines and a restricted license. He admitted that he struck the rear of plaintiff’s vehicle and the case proceeded on the issues of physical and punitive damages. Defendant contended that he had been punished sufficiently for this drinking infraction. He also argued that plaintiff was not seriously injured in this minor accident and had recovered from her injuries. Jury awarded plaintiff $1,522.
Location: Oklahoma County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: McClure v. Litzenberg, CJ-2012-1082

Defendant Argues Chiropractic Treatment Unnecessary

Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck and back injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $4,200
Case Summary: Plaintiff came to a stop at a red light and was rear-ended by the defendant. Plaintiff alleged that she suffered soft tissue neck and back injuries and her chiropractic treatment was necessary and reasonable. Liability was admitted. Defendant however contended that plaintiff’s chiropractic treatment was unnecessary. In support, the defendant pointed out that plaintiff’s treating physician and an orthopedist recommended at-home exercises, but did not recommend chiropractic treatment. Jury returned a plaintiff verdict for $4,200.
Location: Cleveland County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Logan v Spigarelli, CJ-2012-7159

Knee Injury Claim Settled Before Trial

Type of Injury: Aggravation of preexisting left knee injury.
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $4,200
Case Summary: Plaintiff was a passenger in a vehicle. Defendant attempted to make a left turn and collided with plaintiff’s host vehicle. Plaintiff claimed his host driver was proceeding through an intersection with a green light and defendant failed to yield the right-of-way. He acknowledged a prior knee injury, but argued this accident aggravated his condition. He claimed ongoing pain and suffering. Defendant denied liability for the accident and contended that she had a green turn arrow at the intersection. Defendant also claimed plaintiff did not suffer any additional injury as a result of the accident. The parties agreed to a $4,200 pre-trial settlement.
Location: Oklahoma County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Johnson v. Schafer, CJ-2012-2634

Claimed Memory Linked to Pre-Existing Condition

Type of Injury: Head injury-Traumatic brain injury (memory loss), fractured ribs, and pneumonia
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $4,509
Case Summary: Defendant turned left out of a parking lot into the path of plaintiff, who was riding a motorcycle. Plaintiff struck the side of defendant’s vehicle. Plaintiff claimed he suffered from memory loss, fractured ribs, and pneumonia as a result of the accident. Defendant admitted she was negligent for failing to see plaintiff, but disputed causation and damages. Before the accident, plaintiff was diagnosed with optic neuritis, which is a warning sign for multiple sclerosis. Defendant contended the memory loss was not caused by the accident, primarily because the first report of memory loss in the medical records was over one year after the accident and the MRIs did not substantiate a condition which would cause memory loss. Jury returned a plaintiff verdict for $4,509.
Location: Cleveland County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Danette v. Antonio, CJ-2011-5015

Plaintiff’s Activities After Crash Contrary to Injury Claims

Type of Injury: Back and neck injury-Soft tissue cervical and lumbar injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $5,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was a passenger in a vehicle traveling in rush hour traffic. The driver of plaintiff’s vehicle slammed on his brakes to avoid an accident and was rear-ended by a vehicle driven by co-defendant. Plaintiff claimed continuing neck and back injuries as a direct result of this accident. However, plaintiff admitted at trial to hiking and climbing vacations, and walking 40 blocks a day to and from school, all of which followed the accident. Defendant admitted liability for causing the accident, but disputed the nature and extent of plaintiff’s damages. Defendant contended that plaintiff received spotty medical treatment and exaggerated the extent of her lost wages. Defendant also claimed plaintiff did not lose time from work because of her physical therapy treatments. Plaintiff received $5,000 from a jury verdict.
Location: Oklahoma County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Sharpley v. Rone, CJ-2014-4502

Passenger Children’s Soft-Tissue Injury Claims Settled

Type of Injury: Neck and back injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $6,000
Case Summary: Plaintiffs, both minors, claimed that defendant rear-ended the vehicle in which Plaintiffs were passengers. Plaintiffs brought a lawsuit against defendant through their parents for negligence. Both plaintiffs claimed neck and back injuries as a result of the collision. Defendant disputed the claim as to liability and damages. The parties eventually reached a compromise agreement whereby defendant would pay plaintiffs $12,000 for damages. The parties filed a joint petition for court approval of the settlement. The court approved the settlement, disbursed the proceeds and released defendant from any further liability to the other parties as a result of the motor vehicle accident.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Pearman v. Litz, CJ-2018-03748

Jury Not Impressed by Low-Speed Accident Injury Claims

Type of Injury: Neck and back injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $6,800
Case Summary: Plaintiff was struck from the rear by a vehicle driven by defendant. Defendant admitted he rear-ended plaintiff’s car, but disputed the extent of continuing injuries. Plaintiff claimed serious neck and back injuries for which required emergency room evaluation, followed by lengthy chiropractic treatment. Plaintiff asserted she required epidural blocks for the pain to the date of trial. She sought $16,000 in past medicals; $2,000 to $3,000 per year for future epidural blocks; and approximately $2,000 in past lost wages. Defendant contended this low speed accident did not cause plaintiff’s continuing problems. The jury awarded $6,800 to plaintiff for her initial treatment only.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Courtney v. Bowker, CJ-2013-3700

Plaintiff and Physician Credibility Effects Payout

Type of Injury: Cervical strain in neck and post-traumatic headaches
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $7,000
Case Summary: Defendant rear-ended a vehicle in which plaintiff was a passenger. Following the accident, plaintiff claimed she suffered chronic cervical strain and post-traumatic headaches. Defendant did not contest liability but contended plaintiff’s injuries were proximately related to prior and subsequent accidents. Jury returned a plaintiff verdict for $7,000. Per counsel, plaintiff’s credibility and the credibility of her treating physician were an issue in the case. Plaintiff had been involved in a prior auto accident and her treating physician had stated that she would have permanent neck pain and headaches from that accident. He subsequently testified that the prior injuries had fully resolved. A Motion to Set Aside the Verdict was denied.
Location: Edmond, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Kwok v. Hall, CJ-2012-7012

Mother and Daughters Settle Soft-Tissue Injury Claims

Type of Injury: Back and neck injuries-Soft tissue cervical, thoracic and lumbar
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $7,258
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving with two of her minor daughters as passengers. Defendant attempted to make a left turn in front of plaintiffs’ oncoming vehicle and their vehicles collided. The intersection where this accident occurred was controlled by a traffic light. Plaintiffs had the green light. All plaintiffs claimed soft tissue neck and back injuries as a result of this collision. Defendant admitted fault, but contested plaintiff’s damages. Defendant however offered to settle the matter by paying $21,744, which plaintiff driver accepted on her own behalf and on behalf of her daughters. The Court approved the settlement.
Location: Canadian County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Galvan v. Gray, CJ-2015-00522

Plaintiff Settles Disputed Injury Claim with Defendant’s Insurer

Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck and back injuries.
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $7,500
Case Summary: Plaintiff was traveling on a two lane road when defendant made a left turn in the path of plaintiff’s oncoming vehicle. Plaintiff claimed soft tissue neck and back injuries. She received one month of physical therapy and pain medication. She claimed approximately $3,000 in medical expenses. Defendant admitted failing to yield the right-of-way and causing the accident but disputed the duration and extent of plaintiff’s medical treatment, as well as the duration of her ongoing pain complaints. Defendant also argued that plaintiff’s physical therapy was excessive. However, defendant’s liability carrier agreed to a $7,500 settlement prior to trial.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Scott v. Ohio Casualty Insurance, CJ-2011-1380

Child Athlete Injury Claim Settled on Day of Trial

Type of Injury: Back injury-Soft tissue lumbar injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $8,300
Case Summary: Plaintiff, age 12, was a passenger in a vehicle driven by his mother’s boyfriend. As plaintiff’s host driver attempted a right turn off the highway and into a driveway, the car was rear-ended by a car driven by Defendant. Plaintiff claimed that, as a result of the accident, he sustained soft tissue back injuries which continued to the date of trial. Defendant admitted he struck the rear of plaintiff’s vehicle. However, he argued that there were no complaints of injury at the scene and plaintiff’s complaints were sporadic. Defendant noted that plaintiff continued to lift weights and play football during the time period of his complaints. Defendant however agreed to a $8,300 settlement on the day of trial.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Braeckel v. Garnett, CJ-2011-6533

Chin Injury Payout Based on Hi-Low Agreement

Type of Injury: Chin injury-bruising
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $10,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed that defendant, who was exiting a private driveway failed to see plaintiff’s car from the opposite side of the street and drove into the back of the driver’s side of plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff asserted that the impact from the wreck caused a crush-like injury to her chin, as well as bruising. Defendant argued that he had the right-of-way and plaintiff failed to yield to his vehicle. There was no real dispute over plaintiff’s injury. This case was subsequently resolved for $10,000 pursuant to a high/low agreement prior to the jury verdict.
Location: Payne County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Lena v. Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc., CJ-2010-7981

Injured Father and Young Son Reach Compromised Settlement

Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck, back and shoulder injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $10,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating a motor vehicle with his minor son as a passenger. Defendant, who was operating his own vehicle, rear-ended plaintiffs’ car. The impact pushed plaintiffs into the car ahead of them. Both plaintiffs claimed soft tissue neck, back and shoulder injuries. Defendant admitted negligence. He contended that the accident occurred in an area where bottlenecks frequently occurred and admitted he was traveling about 45 mph to 55 mph when he hit plaintiffs’ vehicle. However, he disputed plaintiffs’ damages. The defendant’s insurer agreed to pay the sum of $20,000 to settle the claims. The court approved the compromise settlement.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Posey v. Claiborne, CJ-2013-05370

Tow Truck Driver Liable for Chain Reaction Crashes

Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck and back injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $11,500
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving her vehicle in a stop-and-go traffic. Traffic was traveling at approximately 30 mph when defendant ran into the rear of a vehicle, which then struck plaintiff’s vehicle. The force of the collision pushed plaintiff into the rear of the pickup truck in front of her. At the time of the accident, Defendant was driving a tow truck, which was owned by co-defendant. Plaintiff claimed soft tissue neck and back injuries which continued to the date of trial. Defendants admitted liability for the accident, but disputed the nature and extent of plaintiff’s injuries and contended that plaintiff should have recovered from her injuries. jury returned a verdict in favor of plaintiff in the amount of $11,500.
Location: Edmond, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Lindauer v. McKenzie, CJ-2012-7940-Stuart

Moderate Injury Case Examples

Moderate injuries take longer to heal, and may require more medical follow-up, including physical therapy. Moderate injuries include more extensive soft-tissue injuries, like whiplash, simple fractures, some disc damage, or a concussion. Victims of moderate car accident injuries may be out of work for weeks or months.

Court Approves Truck Company Settlement with Injured Teen

Type of Injury: Back injuries
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $11,693
Case Summary: Plaintiff said his minor son was involved in a motor vehicle accident that was caused by defendant driver. Defendant who was operating a vehicle in the course of his employment with co-defendant. The minor claimed back injuries. Defendants disputed liability for the accident and the plaintiff’s claimed injuries and damages. The plaintiff requested court approval of a $11,693 settlement reached with defendants for plaintiff’s claims of pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, incidental expenses. Judge entered an order approving the settlement.
Location: Oklahoma County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Barton v. Elliott Truck Line, Inc., CJ-2004-785

Jury Award to Plaintiff Injured in Multi-Vehicle Accident

Type of Injury: Neck and back injuries.
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $11,849
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating his motor vehicle when he was involved in a multiple vehicle rear-end collision. At the time of the collision, first defendant was operating his vehicle directly behind plaintiff’s vehicle. The second defendant was traveling behind first defendant. Second defendant admitted he struck the rear of first defendant’s car, causing it to strike plaintiff’s vehicle in the rear. Plaintiff claimed he sustained significant neck and back injuries which caused ongoing pain as a result of the accident. Defendants maintained that the injuries from this accident should have resolved in a short period of time. Defendants further contended that plaintiff’s ongoing complaints were not caused by this accident. Jury awarded plaintiff $11,849.
Location: Oklahoma County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Templeton v. Enterprise Rent a Car, CJ-2011-00292

Negligent Teen Driver Liable for Young Passenger’s Injuries

Type of Injury: General injuries to neck and shoulder
Type of Accident: Single Vehicle
Award/Settlement Amount: $15,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff, age 16, was a passenger in a vehicle driven by defendant, who was also a teenager. Defendant driver changed lanes, lost control of the vehicle and struck a retaining wall. Plaintiff claimed neck and shoulder injuries. Plaintiff acknowledged prior shoulder complaints, but argued that the prior complaints had never kept her from swimming competitively. However, post-accident, plaintiff argued injuries from the accident and exacerbation of her shoulder condition affected her ability to swim. Defendant did not admit liability, but did not vigorously contest it. Defendant also argued plaintiff’s injuries, if any, were unrelated to the accident. Both parties presented their evidence before a jury. The panel returned a verdict in favor of plaintiff and awarded her $15,000 in damages.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Battaglia v. James, CJ-2000-4301

Driver Admits Running Red Light, Disputes Intoxication

Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck and back injuries
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $16,000
Case Summary: At an intersection controlled by a traffic light, plaintiff entered the intersection on a green arrow. He was struck by defendant’s vehicle when defendant ran a red light. Plaintiff claimed soft tissue neck and back injuries which required one month of medical treatment and nine days of physical therapy. Plaintiff alleged defendant was negligent in failing to obey a traffic signal and was driving under the influence of alcohol. Defendant admitted he ran the red light and caused the accident. However, he denied that his blood alcohol content was more than .14. Plaintiff agreed to accept a $16,000 settlement.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Ludtke v. Dobson, CJ-2021-00352

Injured Passenger Award Subject to Hi-Low Agreement

Type of Injury: Neck and back injuries-Aggravation of preexisting cervical and lumbar injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $25,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was a front seat passenger in a vehicle driven by his wife. They were at a complete stop waiting to make a left turn into a shopping mall. Defendant struck their stopped vehicle in the rear. Plaintiff alleged he sustained soft tissue neck and back injuries as a direct result of this impact. Defendant denied plaintiff was injured to the extent he claimed. Defendant noted plaintiff’s significant history of lumbar back complaints and produced evidence of two to three visits a year to emergency facilities with regard to lumbar complaints. The case was subject to a high/low agreement, pursuant to which plaintiff received $ 25,000.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Douglas v. Vandeveer, CJ-2010-1689

Injured Dad and Children Settle With Insurance Company

Type of Injury: Closed head injury; trauma with soft tissue back injury.
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $25,833
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating his vehicle with two of his minor children riding as passengers. Defendant, who was operating her own vehicle in an adjacent lane, changed lanes and hit plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff claimed he suffered a closed head injury with no cognitive deficits while both minors suffered trauma with soft tissue back injuries. Plaintiff alleged that defendant was negligent in the operation of her vehicle. Defendant disputed plaintiff’s damages claim. The parties resolved the claims through a settlement agreement wherein defendant’s liability carrier would pay the plaintiffs $77,500.
Location: Cleveland County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Brannen v. Escobar, CJ-2014-01007

Jury Award to Plaintiff with Alleged Pre-Existing Injuries

Type of Injury: Hip, back and neck injuries
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $30,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff sued defendant, claiming that defendant’s negligence was the cause of a motor vehicle accident. Plaintiff alleged she sustained hip, back and neck injuries. During the jury trial, defendant admitted negligence so that the only issue for the jury was the amount of damages. Defendant asserted that plaintiff was not injured in the accident and that she had a pre-existing condition very similar in nature to the injuries she claimed in conjunction to the accident. Jury awarded plaintiff $30,000. Plaintiff filed a motion for additur or in the alternative for a new trial. The court denied the motion.
Location: Oklahoma County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: McCauley v. Baxter, CJ-2011-6037

Plaintiff Accepts Settlement for Disputed Rear-End Crash Injuries

Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck and back injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $30,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was rear-ended by defendant. This accident involved a moderate impact. Plaintiff claimed neck and back injuries from the accident. She argued that her prior back problems had resolved and the neck and back injuries from this accident caused exacerbation and re-injury of prior areas. Plaintiff’s chiropractic expert testified that plaintiff’s continuing physical problems were due to this accident. Defendant admitted liability but disputed that plaintiff’s continuing problems were related to the collision. The parties entered into a compromise agreement whereby the defendant agreed to pay the total sum of $30,000 to settle the claims.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Preibe v. Kinkeade, CJ-2015-03640

Jury Awards to Plaintiffs Despite Defendant Challenging Injuries

Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck and back injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $31,678
Case Summary: Plaintiffs, who were traveling in the same vehicle, came to a stop at a traffic light. They were subsequently rear-ended by defendant motorist. Both plaintiffs claimed soft tissue neck and back injuries. Plaintiff 1 spent four days in the hospital following the accident. Plaintiff2 claimed medical expenses of $2,500 and lost wages of $1,000. Plaintiff1 claimed medical expenses of $9,500. Liability was admitted. Defendant however contended that Plaintiff1’s hospitalization was not necessitated by the auto accident and Plaintiff2’s injuries were not causally related to the accident. The jury awarded $10,000 to Plaintiff2 and $31,678 to Plaintiff1.
Location: Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Conley v. Johnson, CJ 2011-979

Court Approves Accident Settlement for Injured Child

Type of Injury: Back injury-herniated disc at L5-S1
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $50,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff, a minor, was a passenger in her mother’s vehicle. Plaintiff’s vehicle came to a stop in rush hour traffic and was rear-ended by defendant. Plaintiff sustained herniated disc at L5-S1 as a direct result of this accident. Liability was admitted two weeks before trial. Defendant however contended that plaintiff’s disc herniation was not causally related to this accident and claimed that plaintiff had merely suffered a whiplash injury which resolved. A compromise settlement was reached whereby defendant’s insurer would pay $50,000 in exchange for it and the defendant’s release from all accident-related claims. The court approved the terms of the settlement.
Location: Cleveland County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Armenta v. McAllister, CJ-2017-00497

Injured Victim Settles for Liability and Underinsured Coverage

Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck and back injuries
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $50,000
Case Summary: Defendant was operating his vehicle in rush hour traffic. He was attempting to cross a street to access a service road which ran parallel to the road he was traveling on. There was a car in the right eastbound through lane blocking defendant’s view of oncoming traffic in the far lane. He inched into the far lane and was struck by plaintiff motorist. Plaintiff claimed soft tissue neck and back injuries. Plaintiff argued that defendant failed to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic. Plaintiff’s injuries were not disputed. Parties subsequently entered into a settlement agreement whereby defendant’s insurer agreed to pay $25,000 for liability coverage and plaintiff’s insurer $25,000 for underinsured motorist coverage, in exchange for the release and discharge from all further liability related to the accident.
Location: Cleveland County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Kelm v. Willitzer, CJ-2011-780

Case Settles After Allegation of Pre-Existing Injuries

Type of Injury: Connective tissue shoulder injury and a thoracic annular tear at T7
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $60,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff and defendant were operating their respective vehicles on intersecting streets. Defendant entered an intersection from a stop sign in front of plaintiff’s oncoming vehicle, resulting in a ”T-bone” collision. This was a mild to moderate impact. Plaintiff claimed connective tissue shoulder injury and a thoracic annular tear at T7 as a direct result of this accident. Defendant disputed injury causation. She asserted that plaintiff had a preexisting back injury when he was struck by a golf club in the thoracic spine, resulting in similar complaints. Defendant also argued that plaintiff was involved in a prior motor vehicle accident with shoulder injuries. According to plaintiff, any preexisting injuries had resolved, and this impact caused new, acute symptoms. The parties settled the case shortly before trial for $60,000.
Location: Rogers County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Wheatcraft v. Dill, CJ-2015-00439

Teen Passenger Injury Case Settled Out-Of-Court

Type of Injury: Neck and back injuries-cervical strain/sprain
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $65,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff, age 17, was a passenger in a vehicle operated by his mother when they were involved in a collision with a vehicle operated by defendant. Both vehicles were travelling through an intersection. Plaintiff claimed neck and back injuries. Plaintiff sought emergency treatment immediately following the accident and was diagnosed with a cervical strain/sprain. He presented a second time to the emergency room, followed by chiropractic care and physical therapy. Plaintiffs claimed that defendant failed to stop for a stop sign and failed to yield the right-of-way. Defendant acknowledged that the plaintiff was entitled to reimbursement of his initial emergency room visit, but argued that any subsequent treatment was excessive and unrelated to this accident. The parties subsequently settled the claim for $65,000.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Bolanos v. Galloway, CJ-2015-02788

Crash Victim Settles with Drunk Driver’s Insurance Company

Type of Injury: Soft tissue back injury
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $80,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff stopped his vehicle for a red light and was rear-ended by defendant. Defendant was discovered to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .18. She later pled guilty to driving while intoxicated. Plaintiff claimed soft tissue back injury necessitating emergency room treatment, orthopedic care, physical therapy and three epidural injections. As a result of his injury, plaintiff claimed he could no longer work as a carpenter and took a job as a security guard. Defendant’s medical expert stated that plaintiff’s injury should have resolved within a few months without any job change. A settlement of $80,000 was reached. Per plaintiff’s counsel, State’s statutory punitive damages for DWI and the fact that there were policy limits of $100,000 influenced the settlement in this case.
Location: Oklahoma County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Colbert v. Good, CJ-2017-05192

Jury Verdict for Accident Victim with Facial Scars

Type of Injury: Head injury-lacerations to his forehead and eye
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $85,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was a passenger in a non-party vehicle. Defendant, who was operating his own vehicle, collided with plaintiff’s vehicle in an intersection. Defendant told the investigating police officer that his view of traffic was obscured by a vehicle parked to the left of a stop sign at the intersection. Plaintiff was transported via ambulance to a local emergency room for injuries that included lacerations to his forehead and eye. He underwent immediate surgery to close the wounds and another surgery several months later to revise the scars. Defendant disputed only the value of plaintiff’s injury. Defendant contended that plaintiff made a good recovery with only minor, residual scarring. jury returned an $85,000 verdict for the plaintiff.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Wilbert v. Ritter, CJ-1998-217

Severe Injury Case Examples

Severe car accident injuries may include an array of traumatic brain injuries, extensive neck and back damage, complicated fractures and crush injuries, internal damage, and more. Victims often sustain multiple serious injuries that result in significant and permanent limitations.

Multiple-Injury Case Settled Before Trial

Type of Injury: Closed head injury; Cervical discs herniation at C5-6; lower leg extremity injury
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $108,000
Case Summary: Defendant turned left into plaintiff’s lane of travel. He struck plaintiff’s car on the driver’s side. Plaintiff went to an emergency room immediately after the impact. He suffered a closed head injury, lower leg extremity injury, and cervical discs herniation at C5-C6. The cervical injury required surgical fusion. Plaintiff alleged defendant was negligent in failing to maintain proper control of his vehicle and failing to keep a proper lookout. Defendant denied both liability and damages. Parties reached settlement for $108,000 before trial.
Location: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Janke v. Jackson, Jr., CJ-2004-680

Pre-Trial Settlement After Defendant Admits Liability

Type of Injury: Soft tissue low back injury
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $125,000
Case Summary: At a traffic light, defendant rear-ended plaintiff’s car. Plaintiff claimed soft tissue low back injury. She claimed ongoing treatment for her back injury and was receiving one to two epidural steroid injections per year for an indefinite period. Defendant admitted liability for the accident. Defendant contended plaintiff’s low back injury was a preexisting condition and was not related to trauma from the auto accident. Despite the dispute, the parties agreed to a $125,000 pre-trial settlement. Per plaintiff’s counsel, the pain management specialist’s opinion regarding the necessity of future treatment affected the outcome of this case.
Location: Kay County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Mary v. Dewayne, CJ-2006-00194; CJ-2006-194

Plaintiff Settles Car Accident Injury Claim for Disputed Injuries

Type of Injury: Back injury- soft tissue injuries and herniated cervical discs at C4-7
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $145,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff came to a stop to allow a truck to pull out of a construction site. Defendant rounded a curve and was unable to stop in time to avoid rear-ending plaintiff’s car. Plaintiff alleged she sustained soft tissue injuries and herniated cervical discs at C4-7 as a direct result of this accident. Plaintiff acknowledged preexisting injuries, but claimed the complaints she had following the accident were due to new injuries. Defendant disputed the extent of plaintiff’s injuries and contended that some or all of plaintiff’s injuries were preexisting. The parties reached a $145,000 settlement prior to trial.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Jaggers v. Cusumano, CJ-2011-6024

Plaintiff Settles Case for Injuries Requiring Surgery

Type of Injury: Back injury-Cervical disc herniation
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $208,785
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating his vehicle when he was rear-ended by defendant’s vehicle. Plaintiff claimed he suffered a cervical disc herniation as result of the accident. He further contended that he required surgery because of this accident, resulting in a permanent impairment. Defendant admitted liability for the accident but disputed the extent of plaintiff’s injuries. Defendant argued that plaintiff had a significant history of lower back and neck pain and claimed that plaintiff’s complaints were not related to this accident. The case settled for $208,785.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Bridgeman v. Spyres, CJ-2018-05025

Defendant Challenges Back Injury Before Case Settles

Type of Injury: Head laceration; Back injury-cervical strain
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $275,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was broadsided by Defendant at an intersection. Plaintiff claimed head laceration and back strain because of the wreck. Liability was uncontested and the case proceeded on the issues of causation and damages. Defendant did not deny that plaintiff’s head laceration may have been caused by the accident. However, defendant vigorously disputed that the cervical injury was related in any way to the collision. Defendant argued that plaintiff’s cervical injury and $90,000 in medical expenses were related to the preexisting low back condition but ultimately agreed to a $275,000 settlement.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Lemons v. Rutledge, CJ-2010-7762

Plaintiff Settles for Policy Limits of Unlicensed Teen Driver

Type of Injury: Fractured ribs; Head injuries-lacerations
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $300,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff came to a stop preparing to make a left turn and was rear-ended by defendant. The force of the collision pushed plaintiff’s vehicle into oncoming traffic. Plaintiff’s truck was totaled when it was struck by an oncoming pickup truck. Defendant’s estimated speed at the time of impact was 40 mph. Defendant, who was 15 years old at the time of the accident, was unlicensed. Plaintiff sustained multiple fractures and other injuries. He was hospitalized for a week and then required the use of a wheelchair for several more weeks. Defendant did not contest liability but disputed the nature and extent of plaintiff’s injuries and his claim for loss of earnings. Per plaintiff’s Counsel, plaintiff’s significant emotional distress claim led to a settlement for the policy limits of $300,000.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Garrison v. Garrison, CJ-2015-04563

Motorcyclist with Multiple Injuries Settles for Policy Limits

Type of Injury: Dislocated left shoulder; fracture of right distal radius at wrist; fractured pelvis
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $500,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was riding his motorcycle through an intersection. Defendant made a left turn in front of plaintiff’s oncoming motorcycle, resulting in a collision. Plaintiff claimed that he dislocated his left shoulder and fractured his right wrist. He also claimed to have suffered a fractured pelvis, which led to the development of intestinal infections and the need for a colostomy. He was undergoing rehabilitation for the arm injury and was expected to make a full recovery. Plaintiff claimed $248,720 in medical expenses and approximately $25,000 in lost wages. Defendant agreed to settle this case for the policy limits of $500,000.
Location: Edmond, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Wren v. Kinzer, 606578

Injured Child Passenger Settles with At-Fault Mother’s Insurer

Type of Injury: Head injury-non-displaced skull fracture
Type of Accident: Single Vehicle
Award/Settlement Amount: $650,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was an 11-year-old passenger in a single vehicle collision caused by her mother, the defendant. Plaintiff’s mother was driving a vehicle in owned by co-defendant. Plaintiff’s right forehead was gouged, and the skull bone was slightly visible. The emergency room doctor decided to send her by ambulance to have a plastic surgeon treatment for her forehead injury. During the proceedings, the parties entered into a settlement agreement whereby the plaintiff, through her father, agreed to accept a $650,000 payment from her mother’s insurer, in exchange for releasing the defendant and insurer from all accident-related claims. The court approved the settlement agreement, distributed the settlement proceeds, and transferred the case to the Probate Division for further supervision.
Location: Payne County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Anderson v. Oilfield Cementers Inc., CJ-2015-00066

Brain-Injured Victim Settles with Negligent Driver, Driver’s Employer

Type of Injury: traumatic brain injury, other injuries.
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $750,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was a passenger in a private vehicle parked in a parking lot. Defendant was operating a motor vehicle owned by his employer, co-defendant, with its express permission and consent. Plaintiff claimed that the vehicle defendant driver was operating violently collided with the vehicle she was in, throwing her around inside the vehicle and injuring her. Plaintiff’s injuries included traumatic brain injury among other injuries. Defendants disputed liability as well as the nature and extent of plaintiff’s injuries but ultimately agreed to $750,000 settlement before trial.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Kemp v. Stemco Industries, Inc., CJ-2011-00051

T-Bone Victim Settles with Defendant Insurer on Day of Trial

Type of Injury: Head injury-traumatic brain injury; Multiple fractures to arm and leg
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $900,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff asserted that he had the right-of-way when he was broadsided by defendant’s vehicle in an intersection. Plaintiff suffered a traumatic brain injury as well as significant orthopedic fractures to his left arm and left leg. Plaintiff underwent multiple surgeries to repair the arm and leg injuries including placement of hardware. There was no dispute that defendant caused the accident. Defendant disputed only the extent and value of the damages. Plaintiff settled with defendant’s carrier for $900,000 on the day of trial.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Moore v. Warren Transport, Inc., CJ-2015-3489

Pedestrian Child Hit By Truck Suffers Brain Damage

Type of Injury: Head injury-Traumatic brain damage
Type of Accident: Pedestrian
Award/Settlement Amount: $1,300,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff, a minor, was walking across a street from a local middle school. He was struck and knocked to the ground by Defendant’s pickup truck, who was attempting to exit a line of vehicles. Plaintiff suffered a traumatic brain injury because of the accident. He underwent emergency surgery to reduce pressure on his brain caused by a hematoma. Post-surgery diagnostic testing revealed brain loss and plaintiff claimed residual behavior and memory challenges. Defendant disputed the extent of plaintiff’s damages only. The parties reached a settlement in the amount of $1,300,000. Proceeds covered the cost of a structured annuity, alleged loss of parental consortium and attorney fees and costs, among other things.
Location: Canadian County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Wilson v. Jetta Corp., CJ-2014-00542

Plaintiff Verdict for Victim of Head-On Collision

Type of Injury: Shoulder injury-Torn rotator cuff
Type of Accident: Head-On
Award/Settlement Amount: $1,506,000
Case Summary: Defendant crossed over the center median into to the oncoming lanes and struck the vehicle plaintiff was operating. Plaintiff suffered serious and permanent injuries as a result of the accident including a torn rotator cuff in his shoulder. Defendant was operating a vehicle owned by co-defendant in the course of her employment at the time of the wreck. Plaintiff sought to recover damages more than $75,000. Summary Judgment was entered against co-defendant. Jury found that Defendant’s negligence was the proximate and direct cause of plaintiff’s injuries and damages. Jury returned $1,506,000 plaintiff verdict.
Location: Custer County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Willis v. Sawatzky Construction L.L.C., 09-106

Child Run Over in Parking Lot Sustains Brain Injuries, Leg Fractures

Type of Injury: Head injury-traumatic brain injury; leg fractures; injuries to neck and shoulder
Type of Accident: Pedestrian
Award/Settlement Amount: $1,650,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff, a 10-year-old boy, was struck by defendant’s vehicle at a shopping mall parking lot. Plaintiff’s mother accused defendant, a 78-year-old female of negligently reversing her vehicle in the parking lot and failing to see the minor. Defendant was operating a vehicle owned and maintained by co-defendant. Plaintiff sustained a traumatic brain injury, leg fractures and injuries to neck and shoulder. Plaintiff’s brain injury resulted in numerous deficits. He experienced problems with short-term memory and inattention, all of which were further exacerbated due to chronic pain from the neck and shoulder injuries. The defendants contested liability and the extent of plaintiff’s injuries. Jury returned a verdict of $1,650,000 in favor of plaintiff.
Location: Garfield County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Roberts v. Oklahoma Sur. Co., CJ-2009-00013

Woman Left Paralyzed by Drunk Driver Settles Case Mid-Trial

Type of Injury: Back injury-Cervical spine injury; spinal instability-quadriplegia
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $1,975,000
Case Summary: Defendant was operating a car owned by co-defendant. Defendant was intoxicated when he negligently caused the vehicle he was operating to cross the median and struck plaintiff’s vehicle on the driver’s side. Plaintiff claimed she sustained cervical spine injury resulting in quadriplegia (paralysis) as a direct result of the accident. Defendants admitted liability on the first day of trial after having initially denied all claims. Plaintiff agreed to a $1,975,000 settlement.
Location: Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Terrance v. Algan, CJ-2011-777

Multi-Million Crash Settlement for Brain Injuries, Fractures

Type of Injury: Head injury- Brain damage/subdural hematoma; Hip injury-Fractured femur
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $3,500,000
Case Summary: Defendant, who was driving a pickup truck loaded with propane tanks, ran a red light, and crashed into the vehicle plaintiff was driving. Plaintiff claimed her femur was fractured because of the accident. She also suffered a subdural hematoma in her left frontal lobe that required an emergency craniotomy. Plaintiff claimed she had to have the left quadrant of her skull removed due to brain swelling. She also had to wear a helmet for two months until she could have cranioplasty. Defendant admitted liability for the accident. However, he contended that plaintiff’s problems were a result of pre-existing intra-cranial hypotension, alcohol and tobacco use, high blood pressure, obesity and coronary artery disease. However, parties agreed to a $3,500,000 settlement prior to trial.
Location: Garfield County, Oklahoma
Case Name and Docket Number: Salters v. Dennett, CJ-2018-00266

Methodology

Our averages and ranges are derived from a collection of actual injury lawsuits filed in Oklahoma courts arising from vehicle accidents. The group does not include wrongful death actions.

Every plaintiff received a payout. When a case has more than one plaintiff, the Award/Settlement amount reflects the highest amount issued to one individual injury victim.

Averages are calculated by adding the payouts in a group of cases, then dividing by the number of cases in the group. Unusually high payouts in a group will skew the average higher.