The injury rate for car accidents 2022 was 75 per 100 million vehicle miles. In 2023, 8 million people visited ERs because of slip and fall accidents. And 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year. If you have suffered injuries or damages in an accident, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit and receive compensation. However, determining how much money you can expect to receive can be complicated.
The experienced Chicago personal injury lawyers at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers share some key factors that influence settlement amounts in personal injury cases.
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Type and Severity of Injuries of your Case
The type and severity of your injuries are major factors in determining the value of your personal injury case. More severe injuries that result in ongoing medical treatment, disability, lost wages, or reduced quality of life will warrant larger settlements. Minor soft tissue injuries typically result in smaller settlements. Severe injuries like brain damage, paralysis, or fatalities can result in settlements in the millions – 214,110 people were admitted to hospital in the US with a TBI in 2020. Documenting your injuries thoroughly with medical records is key.
Liability and Negligence in Personal Injury Cases
The more precise the negligence and liability, the higher the potential damages. If liability is disputed, you may receive a lower settlement. Strong evidence like video footage, eyewitnesses, or apparent violations of laws or policies helps prove negligence. A personal injury attorney can evaluate liability and build a strong case for maximum compensation.
Lost Income and Future Earning Capacity in Personal Injury Cases
If your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently, you can claim these lost wages as damages. Document lost income from time missed work. For permanent disability, economists can be used to calculate future lost earnings. Include both salary and benefits like health insurance when tallying lost earnings.
Medical Expenses in Personal Injury Cases
All of your accident-related medical expenses, both current and ongoing future costs, can be included in your claim. Be sure to keep thorough records of all medical and rehabilitation bills, prescriptions, medical equipment, and any expenses related to your injuries – it costs around $2,883 for an overnight stay in a hospital. Ongoing treatment needs can significantly increase a settlement.
Pain and Suffering Damages in Personal Injury Cases
Damages for pain and suffering are more subjective but can still amount to a significant portion of a settlement. The severity and permanence of injuries and their impact on quality of life are used to evaluate pain and suffering damages. Your testimony about how the accident has affected your life is key. An experienced attorney can advocate effectively for fair pain damages.
Comparable Personal Injury Case Settlements
In similar cases, your personal injury attorney can estimate potential value in comparable settlements. Verdicts and settlements are published in legal databases your lawyer can research. Personal injury cases with analogous injury types, negligence, liability, and other factors help estimate settlement. The jurisdiction and history of the particular court will also play a role.
Your Personal Injury Attorney Can Maximize Your Settlement
An experienced personal injury lawyer with strong negotiation skills can maximize settlement offers and get maximum compensation. Factors like being willing to go to trial versus settling early also impact settlement amounts.
Every personal injury case is unique, but keeping these key factors in mind can help give you a more precise estimate of the settlement amount you can obtain in your personal injury lawsuit.
