In the wake of a car accident, medical bills stack up, paychecks stop coming in, and everyday routines get replaced with doctor visits and uncertainty. At Miller & Mallett, we’ve stood beside thousands of Arkansans during some of their most challenging moments, working to make sure their settlement reflects everything they’ve been through. Every case is different, but when you understand what goes into valuing a claim, you’re better equipped to protect your future. Here’s how we help our neighbors fight for every dollar they’re owed—and why we never let the insurance companies call the shots.
What’s the Average Car Accident Settlement in Arkansas?
There’s no universal “average” for car accident settlements, because the value depends heavily on the facts of each case. That said, many Arkansas personal injury claims settle between $10,000 and $100,000, with more severe injuries or wrongful death cases reaching six or seven figures.
Several factors determine your settlement, including:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Out-of-pocket costs (transportation, prescriptions, etc.)
Punitive damages may also be awarded in rare but severe cases involving gross negligence (such as drunk driving).
Common Settlement Ranges Based on Injury Severity
Here’s a general idea of what compensation might look like based on injury type:
| Injury Type |
Typical Settlement Range |
| Minor soft tissue injuries |
$5,000 – $15,000 |
|
Broken bones |
$15,000 – $75,000 |
|
Spinal injuries (non-surgical) |
$40,000 – $100,000+ |
|
Traumatic brain injuries |
$100,000 – $500,000+ |
|
Wrongful death claims |
$250,000 – $1,000,000+ |
Arkansas follows a modified comparative fault system (Arkansas Code § 16-64-122). If you're found partially at fault (under 50%), your settlement will be reduced by your percentage of fault. You may recover nothing if you're 50% or more at fault.
What About Property Damage?
Your car’s repair or replacement cost is typically handled separately through the at-fault party’s insurance policy. Under Arkansas law, drivers must carry at least $25,000 in property damage liability coverage (Arkansas Insurance Department). If your damages exceed their coverage, you may need to pursue additional compensation through your own policy or file a lawsuit.
What Can Reduce Your Settlement?
Insurance companies don’t make their profits by paying out fair claims. Here’s what might lower your potential payout:
- Delaying medical treatment or failing to follow your doctor’s orders
- Making statements that could be used to assign partial blame
- Accepting a quick settlement offer before all damages are known
- Not hiring an experienced attorney to negotiate or litigate on your behalf
When Will I Get My Settlement?
Most car accident claims settle within 6 to 12 months, depending on:
- Whether liability is disputed
- Severity of injuries and recovery time
- Negotiation timeline with the insurance company
- Whether a lawsuit is necessary
We know you need support now, not next year. That’s why our team works diligently to resolve your case as quickly and thoroughly as possible. Importantly, we don’t get paid unless you do.
Let Miller & Mallett Fight for the Settlement You Deserve
We’re proud to be the “Firm with a Smile”—friendly with our clients, fierce with the insurance companies. If you’ve been injured in a car wreck, don’t let the insurance adjuster decide what your case is worth. Let us evaluate it for free, fight for what’s fair, and stand by your side every step of the way.
Visit us in our historic Victorian office on Broadway, or call (501) 999-0206 to schedule your free consultation today.
