You pay nothing until we win
by Matthew C. Andrew - March 14th, 2025
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident in Boise can be incredibly stressful. At Andrew Injury Law, you may be wondering about the potential outcome of your claim, especially regarding the average auto accident settlement. While it’s tempting to look for a single number, the truth is that settlements vary widely based on several factors.
Instead of focusing on an average figure, it’s more valuable to understand the elements that influence auto accident settlements. Your specific situation—your medical expenses, the extent of vehicle damage, and how the accident has impacted your life—are what truly matter. Here, we break down how these elements are evaluated to help you set realistic expectations as you navigate the process.
Several factors determine the value of a car accident settlement. Since each case is unique, the following elements will impact your compensation:
The type and amount of insurance coverage available significantly affect your settlement. If the at-fault driver has minimal insurance or is uninsured, your compensation may be limited unless you have additional coverage like uninsured/underinsured motorist protection (UM/UIM). In Idaho, drivers are required to carry liability insurance, but UM/UIM coverage is optional.
Determining fault is crucial in any auto accident settlement. Idaho follows a modified comparative negligence rule under Idaho Code § 6-801, meaning that if you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation. However, if you are less than 50% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Different states have different rules governing car accident claims. Idaho follows a fault-based system, meaning the driver who caused the accident is responsible for damages. Unlike “no-fault” states, Idaho allows injured parties to file claims directly against the at-fault driver’s insurance company or pursue legal action.
Your out-of-pocket expenses directly influence your settlement amount. These include:
Car accident settlements involve both economic and non-economic damages. Calculating a fair settlement typically involves:
While every case is unique, here are general estimates:
Please note that these figures are estimates, and actual settlements vary based on liability, medical expenses, and long-term impact.
The extent of injuries is one of the most significant factors in determining settlement amounts. Severe injuries requiring prolonged medical care, surgeries, or resulting in permanent disability often lead to higher compensation.
Compensation considers vehicle repair or replacement costs. The more extensive the damage, the higher this portion of the settlement may be.
If the accident caused you to miss work, you may receive compensation for lost wages. If your injuries affect your long-term ability to work, you may also recover damages for loss of future earning potential.
Pain and suffering cover both physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. While harder to quantify, they can significantly increase your claim’s value.
If a family member is killed in an auto accident, surviving relatives may file a wrongful death claim under Idaho Code § 5-311. Compensation may include:
Recovering from a car accident? Andrew Injury Law is here to help. We’ll handle your claim, considering everything from medical bills to pain and suffering, to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us at: 3597 E Monarch Sky Lane Suite 240, Meridian, ID 83646, or 208-517-767.
Matt Andrew has been an attorney and member of the Idaho Bar since 2007 and has a varied and fascinating legal career. Since 2013, Matt has focused on representing seriously injured people in personal injury and workers’ compensation cases. Matt has successfully tried multiple cases to verdict before the Idaho District Courts and the Idaho Industrial Commission.
Member of the Idaho Bar since 2007
Bar Number: #7698
Location: Meridian, Nampa, and Caldwell, Idaho.
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This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Attorney Matthew Andrew, who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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