Why Googling Your Case Value
Doesn’t Work in Personal Injury Cases
Many personal injury clients’ first question is – “How much is my case worth?” And some even send Google searches to show the value they believe they should get for their case. But this does not always work! In fact, most times Google searches for the value of your case are wildly inaccurate. WHY? Experienced personal injury lawyers like Bethany Schneider know that evaluating the value of a personal injury case is a complex process that takes into account various factors. Below is a list of the key elements that can determine the worth of a personal injury case. Understanding these factors will help you have realistic expectations and make informed decisions regarding your claim.
- The Extent of Your Injuries: The severity and long-term impact of your injuries play a significant role in determining the value of your case. This includes considering the type of injury, medical treatments required, rehabilitation costs, and the potential for future medical expenses. The more severe and long-lasting your injuries, the higher the potential value of your case.
- Economic Damages: Economic damages refer to the tangible financial losses resulting from the injury. This includes medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and any other out-of-pocket expenses directly related to the accident. Accurately documenting and calculating these economic damages is crucial in determining the value of your case.
- Non-Economic Damages: Non-economic damages are intangible losses that are more challenging to quantify. These can include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and mental anguish resulting from the accident and injuries. Assigning a monetary value to non-economic damages requires considering the impact on your quality of life and the extent of your suffering.
- Liability and Negligence: Establishing the liability of the at-fault party is vital in personal injury cases. If it is clear that the other party was negligent or at fault for the accident, it strengthens your case and increases its value. Conversely, if there is shared fault or contributory negligence, it may impact the overall value of your claim.
- Available Insurance Coverage: The insurance coverage of the at-fault party plays a significant role in determining the maximum potential value of your case. If the responsible party has substantial insurance coverage, it may increase the likelihood of a higher settlement. However, it’s essential to consider policy limits and any other potential sources of compensation.
- Legal Representation: The experience and expertise of your personal injury lawyer can greatly impact the value of your case. A skilled attorney will thoroughly assess your damages, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights. Their ability to present a strong case can often lead to higher settlements or verdicts.
- Venue: The demographics of a county can make a big difference for the value of your case. In conservative counties, insurance companies rely on juries to award very little in pain and suffering damages in their assessment of the value of clients’ cases. On the other hand, if a county is known for giving big verdicts, that fact can be helpful in getting insurance companies to pay higher damages. The venue of your case is determined in Georgia by the defendant’s county of residence – NOT the county where the injury occurred like most people think.
Determining the value of a personal injury case involves a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, including the extent of injuries, economic and non-economic damages, liability, insurance coverage, and legal representation. It is important to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can assess the specific details of your case and provide an accurate estimate of its worth. Remember that each case is unique, and no two settlements or verdicts are the same. By working closely with your attorney and gathering the necessary evidence, you can pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses. If you interview an attorney who promises you a certain amount of money on a case, BEWARE. This is a red flag! Contact Schneider Injury Law today for help with your case and for getting the full amount of damages you deserve. (404) 800-3060