When filing a claim for personal injury, many seek the answer to the all-important question, “How much is my case worth?” While there’s no simple, one-size-fits-all answer, a personal injury lawyer can help assess the amount that can be sought for damages based on your unique situation.
Factors Affecting The Value of A Personal Injury Case
Here are the criteria a reputable San Jose personal injury attorney uses for case evaluation:
1. Liability
Whether it’s a bicycle, motorcycle or pedestrian accident, determining who’s at fault is the most important part of the case.
If the party that’s responsible for your injury admits liability or you have names and contact numbers of witnesses who can attest to the incident, then your case is likely to focus more on the damages aspect of the case and how much is recoverable.
However, if the said party states that you are fully or partially responsible for the accident, or there are no witnesses, then your case could be delayed while liability issues are sorted out. In this instance, a detailed investigation may be necessary which we are fully equipped to handle. An early and efficient investigation will often make a difference in protecting your rights.
2. Severity of Injuries
The extent of your injuries, the type of medical treatment you received and the cost of your medical treatment altogether contribute to your case’s overall value.
Minor injuries that did not require extensive medical treatment, any delay in seeking medical attention or a pre-existing injury may render the issue of damages more problematic. So, it is important to address any injuries immediately.
Serious injuries that were immediately treated and resulted in significant medical expenses are sensibly valued higher in personal injury cases.
3. Loss of Income
Work missed due to injuries you sustained from injuries in a car crash, motorcycle accident, or the like would definitely be considered. If you’ve been instructed by your doctor to take time off from a well-paying job, then your loss of earnings should be accounted for when determining the damages in your case. Additionally, any loss of benefits sick leave, paid-time off, and vacation leave is compensable if used during the case.
4. Non-Tangible Aspects
To what extent was your life adversely affected by the accident? How will your injuries change the rest of your life? General damages pertain to the inconvenience, all the pain, suffering, disability, physical impairment, or disfigurement. Short-lived suffering that can be resolved sooner holds a lower personal injury case value. Non-tangible damages with great significance and long-term consequences amass a much higher value.
Consult with a San Jose Personal Injury Lawyer Right Away
If you’ve been injured in an accident, contact the team at the Law Office of Farling, Hecht & Davis, LLP today. Our trusted San Jose car accident lawyers have over 75 years combined experience and are dedicated to providing unparalleled excellence and commitment to cases like yours. Give us a call at (408) 295-6100 or contact us online to schedule a consultation to discuss your case.