How much is my personal injury case worth?

People who have been involved in a car accident, suffered a slip and fall at a grocery store or been the victim of a defective product often seek to recover compensation for their losses. A common question is how much is my case worth? Personal injury settlement amounts can vary substantially and determining who is liable may directly impact compensation. The law in some states only allows claimants to recover damages if they did not contribute to the injury, while others may decrease the amount awarded.

Obtaining Compensation For Your Claim

When you file a personal injury claim, the insurance adjuster is the insurance company’s first line of defense. Their goal is to offer victims the least amount of money they are willing to settle for. These are trained professionals who are skilled at negotiation. The amount of compensation you can recover may include:

• Medical costs for hospitalization, doctor visits, expensive tests and prescription drugs
• Lost wages including loss of earning potential if you are unable to return to the same type of job previously held before the accident
• Temporary or physical disability and/or disfigurement or scarring
• Loss of the ability to enjoy life due to depression or anxiety
• Damaged property, including the cost of your vehicle

A spouse may also seek damages when their partner can no longer engage in normal marital relations.

The Art of Negotiation

The insurance company uses insurance adjusters to negotiate personal injury claims. They usually start off by offering bottom dollar even though they are authorized to pay out more. It’s a fact that claimants who are represented by legal counsel often get a larger settlement. Car accident attorneys have skills of their own and know how to negotiate a fair settlement for you.