Suffered a knee injury in a car accident? Learn how much your claim is worth and the factors impacting settlement value.
Knee injuries are among the most debilitating consequences of a car accident, affecting mobility, daily activities, and overall quality of life. Whether it’s a torn ligament, fractured kneecap, or long-term arthritis, these injuries often require extensive medical treatment, physical therapy, or even surgery.
The financial impact can be overwhelming, making a fair settlement crucial to covering medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. But how much is a knee injury claim worth? The answer depends on multiple factors, including the severity of the injury, liability, and the strength of your legal case.
Understanding Knee Injuries in Car Accidents
Knee injuries can affect mobility, ability to work, and long-term quality of life. Victims may be entitled to substantial compensation in a car accident settlement. However, several factors influence the value of a knee injury claim, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and liability.
Common Knee Injuries from Car Accidents
Ligament Tears (ACL, MCL, PCL, LCL)
- The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) are the most commonly injured ligaments in car crashes.
- Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty walking.
- Treatment may involve physical therapy, bracing, or reconstructive surgery.
Meniscus Tears
- The meniscus is the cartilage that cushions the knee joint.
- Torn meniscus injuries cause pain, swelling, and locking of the knee.
- Surgery (such as a meniscectomy or meniscus repair) is often required.
Patella (Kneecap) Fractures
- The patella can be fractured if the knee hits the dashboard during a collision.
- Symptoms include extreme pain, inability to straighten the leg, and swelling.
- Treatment may involve immobilization or surgical fixation.
Dislocated Knees
- A knee dislocation is a severe injury where the bones in the knee joint move out of place.
- It can cause nerve and blood vessel damage, sometimes requiring emergency surgery.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis
- Long-term knee damage from an accident can lead to arthritis, requiring pain management or even knee replacement surgery.
How Much Is a Knee Injury Worth in a Car Accident Settlement?
The value of a knee injury claim depends on multiple factors, including the severity of the injury, medical expenses, lost wages, long-term impact, and pain and suffering.
Medical Expenses
Medical costs play a significant role in determining settlement value. Compensation includes:
- Emergency room visits
- Doctor consultations
- Physical therapy
- Surgical procedures (ACL/MCL reconstruction, knee replacement, etc.)
- Medication costs
- Assistive devices (crutches, braces, wheelchairs)
Lost Wages & Loss of Earning Capacity
If a knee injury prevents you from working temporarily or permanently, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Lost income due to missed workdays
- Diminished earning capacity if the injury limits future job opportunities
- Loss of career advancement for professions requiring physical activity
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering damages cover physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. This includes:
- Chronic pain
- Depression or anxiety related to limited mobility
- Reduced ability to participate in hobbies or daily activities
The amount awarded varies based on injury severity, length of recovery, and long-term effects.
Permanent Disability and Future Medical Costs
Severe knee injuries may require:
- Future surgeries (e.g., knee replacement)
- Ongoing physical therapy
- Pain management treatments
- Disability accommodations
Factors That Impact Your Settlement Value
- Liability and Fault
- Illinois follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning your settlement is reduced if you are partially at fault (735 ILCS 5/2-1116).
- Insurance Policy Limits
- Your settlement may be restricted if the at-fault driver has low insurance limits. However, underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) can help bridge the gap.
- Strength of Medical Evidence
- Immediate medical care and consistent treatment strengthen your claim.
- Gaps in treatment may reduce settlement value.
Steps to Maximize Your Knee Injury Settlement
- Seek immediate medical attention – Delayed treatment can weaken your case.
- Follow all medical recommendations – Inconsistent treatment can lead insurers to reduce payouts.
- Document pain and limitations – Keep a journal tracking mobility issues and pain levels.
- Gather witness statements – Testimonies from passengers or bystanders strengthen your case.
- Hire an experienced car accident attorney – Insurance companies often offer low settlements to unrepresented victims.
Contact Schierer & Ritchie LLC Today for a Free Consultation
Knee injuries from car accidents can have lasting consequences on your health, finances, and daily life. If you’ve suffered a knee injury due to another driver’s negligence, you deserve full and fair compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our experienced legal team fight for the settlement you deserve.