Each personal injury case is different. This makes it challenging to determine how much money you can expect to receive after an accident. In truth, numerous factors can affect your case and the amount of money you can obtain. However, while these factors will depend on the circumstances of the incident, there are usually three key components that play a significant role in determining most personal injury settlement values.
1. The Severity of Your Injuries
Generally, if the injuries you endured are severe, you will likely receive a higher settlement amount. However, if you suffered a minor injury, you might receive a lower amount. For instance, individuals who sustained head or brain injuries will usually get a more extensive settlement offer than those who suffered a sprain or a strain following an accident.
2. The Medical Costs Involved
Another critical component that can impact your personal injury settlement is the medical costs involved, which include everything from the cost of your doctor visits to the hospital stay, ambulance services, follow-up treatments, and prescription medications. That is why after an accident, you should keep records of all your medical treatments so that these costs can be factored into the total settlement offer.
3. The Evidence Presented
Finally, the last key factor that can impact a personal injury settlement value is the available evidence you have regarding what happened and who was at fault. Basically, the more evidence there is, the better chance you have of securing the maximum amount of compensation.
As a result, following an accident, you should try to gather as much evidence from the accident as possible, including photos or videos of:
- The accident scene
- The injuries you can see
- Any hazards that caused the accident
- The motor vehicles involved, if there were any, and
- Any other evidence that can help paint a better picture of how the accident occurred
However, please also note that your comments can be used against you after this accident. Consequently, if you talk to witnesses following the incident or the other parties involved, watch what you say. This means avoiding making definitive statements about what happened and saying things like “I’m sorry” or “it was my fault.” These statements can help the other side argue that you share responsibility for the accident and can reduce the amount of money you can obtain.
Additionally, before you speak to a representative from the insurance company, who is looking for anything they can to reduce the amount of your claim, you should first talk to an experienced personal injury attorney. These lawyers can ensure that the insurer will not twist what you say against you and even handle these discussions on your behalf.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Today and Fight for the Settlement Offer You Need
While the last thing you want to worry about after an accident is what factors will impact your settlement, the reality is that the other side will want to find anything they can to use against you so that you do not get the compensation you deserve. Fortunately, when you work with an experienced personal injury attorney, you will not have to handle this challenging and stressful ordeal alone.
Instead, with these legal professionals fighting on your side, you can have help preparing the strongest case, securing the evidence required to show what happened and who was responsible for your accident, and going after the money you are entitled to.
Do not wait any longer. Contact Cave Law today for a free case evaluation and learn how our legal team can help you.