After an accident, one of the first questions people ask is:
“How much money can I get for my injury?”
The truth? Every personal injury case is different. But there are common factors that determine how much compensation you may receive.
Let’s break it down.
1. Medical Expenses
This includes:
- Emergency room visits
- Surgery or hospitalization
- Physical therapy
- Long-term treatment
💡 Tip: Keep every bill and medical report—you’ll need them to support your claim.
2. Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
If your injury caused you to miss work, or reduced your ability to earn in the future, you may be entitled to:
- Past income loss
- Future income projection (especially for serious injuries)
Workers in physically demanding jobs often see higher payouts in this category.
3. Pain and Suffering
This is non-economic damage, and often the biggest part of a claim. It compensates for:
- Physical pain
- Emotional distress
- Impact on daily life
Lawyers may use a “multiplier” method—e.g., 2x or 3x your medical costs—to estimate this.
4. Liability and Comparative Fault
If you were partially at fault for the accident, your compensation might be reduced.
Example: If you’re found 20% at fault in a $100,000 case, you may only receive $80,000.
Each state has its own comparative negligence laws—a lawyer can explain yours.
5. Insurance Policy Limits
Even with a strong case, your final payout is limited by how much insurance coverage the defendant has.
That’s why lawyers:
- Investigate multiple liable parties
- Look for commercial policies (e.g., trucking companies, landlords)
- Explore umbrella coverage options
6. Representation by a Lawyer
Fact: People who hire a personal injury lawyer typically receive 2x to 3x more compensation than those who go it alone.
A lawyer helps:
- Gather evidence
- Negotiate aggressively
- Take your case to court if needed
And they usually work on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay unless you win.
🟦 Want to Know What Your Case Is Worth?
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