How to Estimate a Personal Injury Settlement - Figure Out How Much You'll Get

Let's suppose that you were recently injured. Perhaps it was in a car accident or simply from walking on an icy sidewalk. At some point, you may wonder whether you have a viable claim for legal compensation for your injuries. However, how do you figure out how much money you may be entitled?

The truth is, accurately calculating the value of a personal injury legal claim is very complicated. Even the most seasoned accident & injury attorneys have a very difficult time accurately figuring out what a personal injury claim may be worth. However, there are some factors that can be evaluated in trying to estimate the value of your case should you decide to pursue or settlement or jury trial. Here are some of the factors that should be considered:

The Facts and Circumstances

The specific facts and circumstances of your injury situation will have a lot to do with the "value" of your personal injury lawsuit. Did the person or company at fault for your injuries act unreasonably? Do they have insurance? What is the total value of your insurance policy?

The Evidence

In addition to the facts, you will have to have evidence to prove your case. Regardless of how badly a defendant may have acted to cause to your injuries, without evidence of this wrong-doing, it will be difficult to prove that you are entitled to compensation.

Your Legal Representation

Of course, the quality of your legal representation will also play a role in the outcome of your personal injury case. If you represent yourself, or select an unqualified attorney, your chances of obtaining appropriate compensation will likely diminish. That is why it is important to interview your prospective lawyer first and determine what sort of experience he/she has had with legal matters similar to yours.

Here are some additional factors that will play a role in determining the value of your accident injury claim:

The amount of your medical bills related to this incident.

The degree of pain and suffering that you and potentially close relatives have endured from this matter.

Missed work and the impact your injuries have on your future work prognosis.

Permanent disfigurement and/or disabilities caused by this incident.

In the end, the best way to maximizing your chances of obtaining a successful outcome is to discuss your injury legal situation with an experienced legal professional in your state. Since most injury cases involve state law matters, you will want to consult with an attorney familiar with the laws in the state in which you believe will have jurisdiction over your case. Of course, you may not know which state has jurisdiction. In that case, you should contact an attorney near you who can help you understand in which state you will probably want to bring your case. An attorney should also be able to point you in the direction of other attorneys who may be able to assist you.