LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESS Newswire / February 9, 2026 / Benji Personal Injury today released findings from an analysis of 1,200 California car accident victims that reveals a troubling pattern in how insurance companies handle injury claims.

The research, conducted between January 2024 and December 2025, found that 68% of accident victims accepted the first settlement offer presented by insurance companies without consulting an attorney. Among those who settled immediately, 91% later discovered their compensation failed to cover long-term medical expenses.

Understanding the True Cost of Injury Settlements

"These numbers show exactly why insurance companies push for quick settlements," said Daniel Benji, founder at Benji Personal Injury. "They know most people do not understand the full value of their claim." The study analyzed cases involving car accidents, motorcycle crashes, and pedestrian injuries across Southern California.

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, motor vehicle crash injuries cost Americans $75 billion annually in medical care and lost productivity. However, initial settlement offers averaged just 23% of victims' total documented expenses in the Benji Personal Injury analysis.

Key Findings on Settlement Disparities

The research revealed stark differences between represented and unrepresented claimants. Victims who hired personal injury attorneys received settlements averaging $47,300, while those who negotiated alone settled for an average of $13,600 for similar injuries.

Among the most concerning findings: 54% of accident victims who accepted quick settlements returned to work before doctors recommended, risking permanent injury. Data shows that truck accident victims faced particularly aggressive settlement tactics, with initial offers covering less than 18% of projected medical costs.

Implications for California Accident Victims

The study's implications extend beyond individual cases. Insurance companies systematically exploit information gaps, counting on victims' financial desperation and lack of legal knowledge to minimize payouts.

Benji Personal Injury recommends that all accident victims seek free legal consultations before accepting any settlement offer. The firm handles cases involving slip and fall accidents, vehicle collisions, and catastrophic injuries on a contingency basis.

The complete study methodology and findings are available at benjipersonalinjury.com.

About Benji Personal Injury:
Benji Personal Injury represents accident victims throughout Southern California, fighting for fair compensation against insurance companies that attempt to minimize legitimate claims.

Media/contact -

Daniel Benji, Esq.
Benji@trustbenji.com
+1 866-236-5474
Trustbenji.com
Los Angeles, CA

SOURCE: Daniel Benji, Esq.