If you have been involved in an accident, you can most likely pursue a personal injury claim against the liable party. Most accidents are the result of someone’s negligence or wrongdoing. There is no average personal injury settlement because the value of a claim varies significantly from one accident to another. Several things are given consideration when a claim is calculated. The kind of accident and how it occurred play a major role in the outcome of a case.
As an example, if a driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol when he crashed into your car, it was obvious he was negligent and was breaking the law when he or she caused your accident. If a customer spilled a drink on a grocery store floor and it was not cleaned up before you slipped and fell, yes, the store was negligent, but they will be given some leeway as no laws were broken. Because of the way these accidents happened and how they were caused, the ruling of a judgment is affected.
There Is No Such Thing As “Average” For Personal Injury Claims
When it comes to the monetary value of a claim, there is no such thing as an average personal injury settlement for personal injury claims. There are many kinds of personal injury claims and the value of the claim is dependent on the specific facts for each individual case. Because of the different things that are considered when the value of a claim is calculated, average numbers are not beneficial in trying to determine the value of a case.
The Personal Injury Calculator
Sometimes a personal injury claim calculator is used. This is usually for slip and fall claims, auto accidents, and other common personal injury cases. This is a formula that is used that involves a common multiplier and the total of your medical expenses to determine the non-economic damages, which are basically your pain and suffering. The figure that is calculated is added to your economic losses, which are medical expenses, lost wages, and property damages, to get the monetary figure that can be used for negotiating a settlement.
First, take the total of your medical expenses, even if you did not pay them out of pocket. Then, you will add up any property damages. For many personal injury claims there are no property damages. If it is a motor vehicle accident, this is the cost for fixing your car. If you had to miss work, you now add in your lost wages. If you will require future medical care, the cost of that care should be estimated. You will also need to include an estimation for any future lost wages. Now, your general damages will be multiplied. The total is then multiplied by a figure ranging from 1.5 to 5. You and your attorney will argue the use of a higher multiplier, such as a 4 or 5, but the insurance adjuster is going to argue for a lower multiplier, such as a 2 or 3.
Consult With A Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been injured in an accident, you should consult with a personal injury attorney. Your attorney will gather up the evidence and documentation to support your claim and to prove the damages that you suffered in the accident. Schedule your free case evaluation today, and since there is no average personal injury settlement, your attorney can tell you the value of your claim.
