How to Value Your Claim:
One of the most common questions that we are asked by potential clients is “What is the value of my claim?” Many factors are taken into consideration when valuing a personal injury claim. Ultimately, the judge, jury or arbitrator will decide how much your case is worth, but some of the factors that go into the decision making process are:
- Severity and permanency of your injuries – For example, broken bones are worth more than bruising. A spinal cord injury has more value than broken bones.
- Amount of medical bills, both at the time of your accident as well as future anticipated medical expenses, perhaps for future rehabilitation or physical therapy. The more your medical bills, the more your case will probably be worth.
- The value of your damaged or lost property, such as your vehicle if it was a car accident.
- Compensation for lost wages – both past and future.
- Other long-term financial consequences of the accident.
- Pain and suffering.
- Prior Injuries – If you have had significant medical issues or injuries in the past, it may affect your claim. The defense may claim that you already had the injury before the accident occurred.
- Liability – If you were not at fault whatsoever in your accident, then this is a positive for your case. If you were partially at fault, then your percentage of fault is subtracted from the amount of your award, therefore diminishing the value of your claim.
- Whether or not the accident was alcohol related.
- Prior claims – if you have had any prior claims for personal injuries, the insurance company/defense will try to use this against you. They will use this information to question your credibility and try and suggest to the jury that you are a litigious person.
While these are not the only issues that may impact the value of your claim, they are some of the most common. Determining the value of a personal injury claim is difficult, but here at the Bennett Law Group our goal is to help those who have been injured receive the compensation that they are entitled to. We will fully research your case, deal with the insurance companies on your behalf, and guide you through the complicated legal process. Our goal is to help you receive the maximum compensation possible under Georgia law.
The filing of a personal injury lawsuit is a complicated process that requires specialized knowledge and experience. If you have been injured due to the carelessness of another and through no fault of your own, you need representation from someone experienced in the process. If you are unrepresented by legal counsel, there is a very high probability that you will not receive the full value of your claim from the insurance company. Contact us online or call us for a free consultation. We may be reached at 404.541.9330. We are here to help.