In 2011, an auto accident resulting in either injuries or deaths was reported roughly every three minutes and 15 seconds. If you have been injured in a car accident, there are two separate parts to car accident settlements: the personal injury portion of your case is negotiated separately from your property damage.
The amount of money you get from your settlements for personal injury from a car accident will depend on the severity of your injuries and how much proof you can give of your pain and suffering.
Insurance companies may try to avoid paying for the costs associated with your injuries in car accident settlements. Negotiating these settlements can be complex. Car accident lawyers have years of experience dealing with insurance companies and will ensure that there is a complete investigation, compile witness and expert statements, as well as police reports and medical records.
Factors that may influence car accident settlements:
- What type of medical treatment did you have? For how long? Did you see specialists?
- Were there any out of pocket medical expenses not covered by insurance?
- Did you miss work?
- Have you had any previous injuries to the area that was affected by the accident?
If you suffered a soft injury, you may get your medical expenses and loss of income in a car accident settlement. A soft injury involves either muscle or other soft tissue. If you suffered a hard injury, then your settlement claims may be much higher. This is because hard injuries are more painful and easier to prove to a jury. A hard injuries may include torn ligaments, dislocated joints, as well as head and spinal injuries.
Car accident settlements and negotiations start with your lawyer making a demand for compensation, usually to the insurance company for the person who caused your injuries. If the evidence in your favor is strong enough, the insurance company may pay the claim. It is more likely that the car insurance company with make a lower counter offer and negotiations will continue until an agreement is reached, or, a lawsuit becomes a better option.
When you are injured in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you are entitled to seek compensation for your damages through a personal injury claim. Our state and federal constitutions make it a fundamental right for citizens to recover their losses. Car accident claims can quickly become complicated and each case is a very unique. The value of your claim is going to depend on factors that are highly individualized.
For legal guidance and representation through each step of the car accident settlements and negotiation process, please contact the Dysart Law Firm for a free case evaluation today.