One of the most common questions among car accident victims is, “What is my case worth?” Even though this is a frequently asked question, there is no straightforward answer because every case differs. Judges, juries, and insurance companies take each accident case and determine values based on the specific details, resulting in different amounts for each client.
Though there is no predetermined answer, the attorneys at Swanson, Lathen, Prestwich, PC will work hard at getting you the most money possible for any damages. It’s best to meet with a car accident attorney to determine how much your case is worth. In the meantime, here are a few factors that determine the value of your car accident case.
What determines the value of your car accident case?
When calculating the value of potential car accident compensation, the following factors are considered, among others:
- The date and location of the accident
- Who was at fault for the accident
- Your age
- Your specific injury diagnosis and prognosis for recovery
- Any potential scarring or disfigurement
- Health before the accident
- Any pre-existing injuries
- Medical care that was received
- Projected medical bills
- Your income level
- Your working conditions after the surgery
Remember that you’ll need to prove and demonstrate that you have compensable losses to insurance companies. Medical records, pay stubs, hospital bills, letters from doctors and employers, vehicle repair estimates, expert opinions, and any other potential evidence will be needed to establish the value of your case. All the pertinent information is also necessary should your case go to trial.
What damages are available for car accident victims?
To receive money for what your case is worth, you’ll need to claim specific damages in your car accident lawsuit. These are particular amounts of money requested by you, the injured party, to make things whole again. Damages are awarded if the court finds that another person violated your rights. When filing a car accident lawsuit, you can file for the following damages, depending on your case:
- Medical Expenses
Injuries are common among car accident victims, so it’s essential to have a thorough medical evaluation performed in the aftermath of an accident. You can claim damages for medical expenses to cover ambulance fees, physical therapy, consultations, permanent disability, physical therapy, in-home services, and accessories such as crutches. Any additional medical treatment that you may need in the future is calculated with medical expense costs.
- Pain and Suffering
Damages for pain and suffering are based on any physical distress that was caused as a result of the accident. It can vary based on the type of injury and pain suffered, such as anxiety or stress.
- Lost Wages
Physical injuries, time spent in a hospital, mobility issues, or other potential factors can all cause time off from work, resulting in lost wages. Damages filed for lost wages are common and are based on a determination of your skill, occupation, age, life expectancy, and more.
- Loss of Affection or Companionship
Loss of affection or companionship is another damage that could be awarded based on the seriousness of an injury. In these cases, the uninjured spouse files a claim for the loss of companionship and/or consortium based on the severity of the injuries. Surviving family members can claim loss of society and companionship damages if a spouse has died due to the accident.
- Punitive Damages
If the other motorist behaved recklessly or irresponsibly, you may file punitive damages to punish the other driver for their behavior. One common example of this is drinking and driving.
- Property Damages
After an accident, the at-fault party will typically cover the cost of property damage that resulted from the car accident. Generally speaking, the amount that is recovered is the difference in the value of the car before and after the accident.
Contact SLP Law for an accurate case evaluation
Experiencing a car accident can be devastating for many different reasons. If you’re asking yourself, “What is my case worth?” it’s time to contact the Swanson, Lathen, Prestwich, PC attorneys. We are the car accident attorneys in Salem, Oregon, who will remain dedicated to your case, giving you proven results. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.