Two question get brought up a lot in just about any legal case: how much will this cost, or how must do I deserve? While putting a dollar figure on legal issues may seem to be greedy, the simple fact is when you are wronged, you deserve something. If you in turn wronged someone, they too deserve something. This gets complex, especially in Car Accident Personal Injury Lawyer, but this guide focuses on a basic question. How much is a car accident injury claim worth?
Know the Types of Damages
There are many forms of damages you can get after a car accident, depending mainly on what happen, who was at fault, and who is injure. Even in cases where fault is on both sides, the person hurt can recover damages. This includes damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, mental anguish, and loss of life enjoyment. While you may think medical expenses may be the big number here, actually pain, suffering, and mental anguish can lead to much greater damages.
Know Who You are Suing
Car accident claims can be high, but it depends on who’s at fault. If you’re involve in an accident with another car, that car owner and his or her insurance will liable. On the other hand, if you’re hit by someone in a company vehicle, you might get more. The point here is that the bigger the person at fault is, the more he or she pays. That may sound unfair, but it’s how it works.
Valuing a Claim
Insurers first define claims by medical expenses and lost wages, not by pain and suffering issues. Medical and lost wages are where the process begins. Then, if the injuries are very severe, if the pain and suffering is a lingering issue, they may increase the initial number dramatically. However, the first offer may be a low one, and not factor in pain, suffering, and mental anguish. How can you get more?
Get a Lawyer
A personal injury lawyer is essential in proving liability, improving damages, and protecting your rights. You simply cannot do without one. You need not fork over a huge check either; an experienced personal injury lawyer will take a percentage of the final settlement. If you lack a lawyer, it may decrease the value of your claim. With a lawyer, you can make fair counter offers, and if need be take this issue to court. How much does a lawyer get? This depends on the complexity of the case. If you settle far before court, a lawyer may take around 25% of the settlement. If you fight a long, protracted battle in court, the fee will be more like 35%.
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