If you’ve been injured in an accident, you may be wondering how much your personal injury case is worth. This is a difficult question to answer, as the value of a case can vary significantly depending on the facts and circumstances.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the factors that contribute to the value of a personal injury case. Keep in mind that every situation is unique, and it is important to speak with an experienced accident attorney to get a better understanding of what your case may be worth.
What Is A Personal Injury Claim?
A personal injury claim is a legal proceeding in which an individual seeks damages for injuries sustained due to another person’s negligence or recklessness. In order to win a personal injury claim, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant owed a duty of care to the plaintiff, breached that duty, and that the breach resulted in the plaintiff’s injuries.
Common types of personal injury claims include car accidents, slip and fall accidents, medical malpractice, and product liability.
If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other damages. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and maximize your chances of success.
What Factors Determine The Value Of A Personal Injury Case?
Securing fair compensation in a personal injury case is not easy. Below are several factors that influence the worth of your claim.
1. Injuries Suffered
The type, severity, and extent of your injuries determine the value of your claim. The more severe your injuries, the higher the compensation. It is important to keep medical records as proof of the damages.
If the injuries cause you a permanent disability or disfigurement, your claim will be of higher value than a claim whose victim has suffered minor injuries.
2. Medical Treatment Bills
The jury and insurance companies will look at your medical bills to determine the value of your personal injury lawsuit. High medical bills are associated with severe injuries.
If your record shows that you went to the emergency room, underwent surgery, physical therapy, MRIs, CT scans, and attended all doctor appointments, you will get higher compensation.
On the other hand, if you only took over-counter painkillers and did not see a physician, your injuries are deemed minimal, hence minimal or no compensation.
3. Lost Income
Whether or not you lost your income after the accident is another major factor used to value your personal injury case. If you cannot work while in recovery or you are not able to work in the same capacity, you will get high compensation.
However, you must prove your inability to work or reduced income to get the compensation you deserve. A letter from your doctor restricting you from working and a solid calculation of your lost daily wages increase the value of your personal injury claim.
If you cannot return to work, your lawyer will use your current salary and job benefits to calculate your lost future income and ensure that you get fair compensation.
4. Insurance Coverage Limits
The coverage policies of the insurance company you are dealing with greatly influence the value of your personal injury claim. Some insurance companies offer generous settlements, while others would rather spend large amounts to defend the claim in court to scare other victims.
Moreover, some insurance companies do not cover total losses, so you will be required to follow up with the individual for compensation. You do not have control over the policies of the insurance company, but they determine the value of your case.
What Are Some Of The Common Damages Awarded In A Personal Injury Case?
Damages for a personal injury case fall under two main categories, compensatory and punitive.
Compensatory damages include economic and non-economic damages awarded to compensate you for your injuries.
5. Economic Damages
Economic damage includes financial expenses as a result of the accident. They include:
- Hospital bills and any other medical care expenses
- Lost present and future income
- Property loss and damage
6. Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damage is related to the pain and suffering caused by accidents. These damages include:
- Emotional distress
- Physical pain
- Mental trauma
- Permanent disability
- Loss of love and companionship
- Decrease in quality of life and ability to enjoy
7. Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are awarded as punishment to the party at fault. Punitive damages are rare and awarded if the wrongdoer acted out of malice or willfully.
Should I Hire An Attorney To Represent Me In My Personal Injury Case?
The answer depends on a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries, the insurance coverage available, and the laws in your state. If you’ve been seriously injured, it’s generally a good idea to at least consult with an injury attorney to find out what your rights are and whether you have a case.
An experienced personal injury attorney will be familiar with the applicable laws and will know how to build a strong case on your behalf. In addition, if you’re up against a large insurance company, you’ll likely need an attorney to level the playing field. Even if you don’t ultimately decide to hire an attorney, consulting with one can give you a better understanding of your legal rights and options.
Seek the Advice of an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If you or your loved one has suffered injuries after a personal injury accident and you want to file a claim, hire an experienced personal injury attorney for assistance. They will investigate your case to determine its worth and advise you on the best course of action.
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