Settlement Calculator
Estimate personal injury settlement value using economic damages, non-economic damages, and liability factor. Includes formula, worked examples, and FAQs.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific case.
Our Settlement Calculator helps you estimate a ballpark figure for personal injury settlements based on economic damages, non-economic damages, and a liability factor. Use it to understand the range of possible outcomes before speaking with an attorney — not as a substitute for professional legal advice.
Settlement Formula
Settlement Value = (Economic Damages + Non-Economic Damages) × Liability Factor
- Economic Damages — medical bills, lost wages, future medical costs
- Non-Economic Damages — pain and suffering, calculated as economic damages × a multiplier of 1.5–5x depending on injury severity
- Liability Factor — adjusts for comparative fault (e.g., 0.8 if you are 20% at fault)
FAQs
How is a personal injury settlement value calculated?
A common formula is: Settlement Value = (Economic Damages + Non-Economic Damages) × Liability Factor. Economic damages include medical bills, lost wages, and future medical costs. Non-economic damages (pain and suffering) are often calculated as economic damages multiplied by a multiplier of 1.5–5x depending on injury severity. Liability factor adjusts for comparative fault.
What is a fair settlement amount for a car accident?
There is no universal fair amount — it depends on medical costs, lost income, fault percentage, and jurisdiction. Minor accidents with soft-tissue injuries typically settle for $10,000–$25,000. Serious injuries with surgery, long-term disability, or lost earning capacity can reach six or seven figures. An attorney can evaluate the specific facts of your case.
How long does it take to receive a settlement?
Most personal injury settlements are reached before trial — 90%+ of cases settle out of court. Simple cases may settle in 3–6 months; complex cases involving disputed liability or serious injuries often take 1–3 years. After settlement agreement, payment typically arrives within 30–60 days.
Is a settlement amount taxable?
In the US, compensatory damages for physical injuries or illness are generally not taxable under IRC Section 104. However, punitive damages, emotional distress not stemming from physical injury, and interest on settlements are taxable. UK compensation for personal injury is also generally exempt from income tax. Always confirm with a tax professional for your situation.
What percentage do lawyers take from a settlement?
Personal injury attorneys in the US typically work on contingency — they take 33% (one-third) of the settlement if the case settles before trial, rising to 40% if it goes to court. Some attorneys charge 25–30% for straightforward cases. This fee comes out of the settlement before you receive your portion.