What is My Car Accident Case Worth?
When you file a claim for a car accident, you must be prepared to undergo the litigation process without the guarantee that you’ll receive the total necessary compensation. Note that insurance companies will do everything they can to invalidate your claim, thereby making you ineligible to receive payment (and saving them money).
However, when insurers do cooperate, the defendant’s legal team will more than likely offer a lowball settlement. This leaves you with the sole responsibility to cover all damages that were inflicted upon you in the crash. To ensure you get the precise amount of compensation you deserve, use the guide below to determine how much your car accident case is worth.
Estimating How Much You Should Receive in Compensation
After your car accident, it is imperative that you begin documenting the damages immediately. Evidence of things like property damage and physical injuries is critical to securing the total compensation award that is owed to you. The types of damages you will need to document immediately after the crash include:
- Bodily injuries. Whether you sustained any injuries in the crash or not, you need to immediately see a medical professional. This is primarily meant to ensure your safety and to prevent any existing conditions from worsening. Additionally, after meeting with your physician, you will be given a summary of your visit detailing both the extent of your injuries and the cost of your treatment. This bill is central to estimating your compensation award.
- Property damage. Your vehicle is likely to have been damaged in the crash. Go to a mechanic and get an estimate of how much the repairs will cost. Save their printed estimate and add it to the collection of documents you’ll be using to predict the total sum of your monetary funds.
- Lost work hours. Anytime you had to leave work as a directly result of the auto collision (i.e., missing work to get treated for your injuries, meet with your lawyer, repair your property, etc.), the resulting lost wages should be covered. Document all hours that you were absent from work for these reasons, and incorporate them into your total.
These are not the only damages that you should consider when filing a claim against the negligent driver. You are also eligible to be compensated for psychological and emotional trauma, loss of consortium, and a general reduction in your quality of life. To learn how these losses may influence your total award, consult with your car accident lawyer.
How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help Determine Your Accident’s Worth
A car accident lawyer is an essential part of your success in filing a claim against the negligent driver. There is no guarantee that you will be awarded the funds owed to you. However, an accident lawyer will significantly increase your chances of winning your case. They will help to determine the precise amount owed to you and collect every piece of documentation necessary to build a formidable case against the guilty party. Contact a car accident lawyer today to increase your chances of receiving the appropriate compensation and restoring your financial stability after the crash.
