Yes, the make and model of a car can indeed have an effect on a damages settlement amount in a car accident case. Factors related to the vehicle's make and model may influence the settlement may include:
Safety Features: The safety features of a car, such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and collision avoidance systems, can affect the severity of injuries sustained in an accident. Cars equipped with advanced safety features may result in fewer injuries, leading to lower medical expenses and potentially a lower settlement amount.
Crashworthiness: Some vehicles are designed to withstand crashes better than others. Cars with higher crashworthiness ratings may result in less damage to the occupants and lower repair costs, which can impact the settlement amount.
Vehicle Value: The value of the vehicle itself can also play a role in determining the settlement amount. More expensive cars may have higher repair costs or replacement value, which could lead to a larger settlement to cover the damages.
Reputation for Safety: The reputation of a car's make and model for safety may also factor into settlement negotiations. Cars with a history of safety recalls or known defects may result in higher settlement offers to compensate for potential risks.
Comparative Negligence: In some cases, the make and model of the vehicles involved in the accident may be used to assign comparative negligence. For example, if a smaller car is involved in a collision with a larger, heavier vehicle, the occupants of the smaller car may be deemed less at fault due to the inherent differences in vehicle size and safety features.
While the make and model of a car can influence a damages settlement amount, it is just one of many factors considered during settlement negotiations. Other factors, such as the circumstances of the accident, the extent of injuries, and liability issues, will also play a significant role in determining the final settlement amount.