After being hurt in a car accident, you may wonder how much money you will receive in a settlement. Many factors affect the final amount, including the severity of your injuries, who was at fault, and whether or not you have insurance.
Here is a list of the most critical factors influencing your car accident settlements.
The Severity Of Your Injuries
Injuries that require long-term treatment or have a significant impact on your quality of life are typically worth more than those that heal quickly. The long-term effects of serious injuries can be expensive and cause immense pain and suffering.
In other words, if you have a permanent disability or scarring, you may be entitled to a higher settlement than if your injuries heal completely. Also, the more severe your injuries are, the more likely you will have high medical bills. If your injuries require ongoing treatment or rehabilitation, this can also add to the cost of your settlement.
Who Was At Fault For The Accident?
It is vital to know who was at fault for the accident. In most cases, the person who is not at fault for an accident will be able to recover more damages from the individual who is responsible.
In some states, there may be a “no-fault” rule. Each person will file a claim with their own insurance company regardless of who was at fault for the accident. However, even in “no-fault” states, there may be circumstances where you can still sue the other driver if the accident caused severe injuries.
You should hire a skilled attorney to learn more about your state’s specific laws for the accident settlements.
Whether Or Not You Have Insurance
Insurance firms are tough to talk to. They collect premiums and payout as little as possible on claims. If you have insurance, the insurance company will likely be your primary adversary in settlement negotiations.
Even if you have a good cause, the insurance company will try to lowball you on your settlement offer. An attorney will know how to deal with the insurance company and get you the best possible settlement.
Whether Or Not You Received Medical Treatment After The Accident
In 2019, nearly 6.6 million passenger cars were involved in U.S. traffic crashes. An accident can add to medical bills.
Medical records like ambulance reports, hospital records, and receipts for medical treatment can help prove the severity of your injuries. It is essential because the more serious your injuries are, the more compensation you may be able to recover.
If you didn’t take medical help after the accident, proving that you were injured seriously. A professional attorney will help to gather evidence to support your claim.
Thus, if you have been injured in a gruesome car accident, it is vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your lawyer can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
The Amount Of Property Damage Caused By The Accident
Property damage may include:
- The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
- The cost of repairs to any property damaged in the accident (e.g., fence, building, or parked car).
- The value of any personal belongings that got destroyed in the accident.
The amount of property damage caused by accident is significant in determining the settlement amount. If you have suffered more damage to your vehicle or other property, you can expect a higher settlement than if the damage was minimal.
Whether Or Not You Were Able To Return To Work After The Accident
Lost wages are another factor that will be considered when calculating your settlement. If you were unable to return to work after the accident, you would likely be able to recover compensation for your lost wages.
Additionally, if you are now working in a lower-paying position because of your injuries, you may be able to recover the difference in wages in your settlement.
To calculate lost wages, your attorney will need documentation from your employer verifying how much you were earning at the time of the accident and how much you are earning now. It can be in pay stubs, tax returns, or other financial records.
Psychological Help
Some people cannot emotionally handle the aftermath of a car accident. If you were in a car accident, you might require psychological help. Other things have physio, medication, lost earnings, childcare, and long-term care. The costs can be included in your settlement.
Conclusion
Car accidents are unfortunate events. Knowing the factors that affect your settlement is essential if you are involved in a car accident. The severity of injuries, the amount of property damage, who was at fault, and whether you have insurance are essential factors. A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and get the proper settlement.
