Suffering a personal injury is life-changing. Beyond the physical pain, your life is disrupted by medical bills, lost wages, and emotional turmoil. If you're considering filing a personal injury claim in New York, one of the first questions you’re likely asking is, "What is my case worth?"
While every case is unique, there are critical factors that determine the value of a personal injury claim. This guide will help you understand those factors and how they influence your potential compensation.
The Key Factors Determining Case Value
1. The Severity of Your Injuries
The extent of your injury plays a significant role in the value of your case. Severe injuries, such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or broken bones, typically warrant higher compensation than minor injuries. Severe injuries often involve:
- Prolonged or lifelong medical care
- Permanent disability or loss of function
- Long-term physical pain and suffering
The more severe the injury, the greater the likelihood of securing substantial compensation.
2. Medical Expenses
The medical costs you’ve incurred and will continue to incur can significantly add to your claim's worth. Compensation may cover:
- Emergency room visits
- Surgeries
- Physical therapy
- Medications
- Required medical devices, such as wheelchairs
It’s essential to track every medical expense and secure proper documentation to present as evidence in your case.
3. Lost Wages and Future Earnings
If your injury has kept you from working, you can seek compensation for lost income. Additionally, if the injury affects your long-term earning potential, your attorney can calculate and pursue future lost earnings. For instance:
- If you can no longer perform your job due to a physical impairment
- If your ability to seek promotions or higher-paying roles is curtailed
Compensation in these cases doesn’t just help cover the immediate bills; it helps secure financial stability for your future.
4. Pain and Suffering
No amount of money can compensate for the pain and emotional suffering caused by a serious injury. However, you may be entitled to non-economic damages for:
- Chronic physical pain
- Emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Loss of enjoyment of life due to physical limitations
These damages are less tangible than medical bills or lost wages, but they are just as critical in determining the full value of your personal injury claim.
5. Liability and Evidence
For a successful claim, proving someone else was responsible for your injury is essential. The strength of your evidence and your ability to establish liability will greatly impact the outcome of your case. Evidence includes:
- Police reports
- Medical records
- Witness statements
- Photos or videos of the accident scene
Your attorney's expertise in building a strong case can significantly influence the compensation you receive.
6. Insurance Policies and Coverage Limits
Sometimes, the value of your case depends on available insurance coverage. For example:
- If the responsible party only has minimal liability insurance, it may cap the compensation available.
- If you have underinsured motorist coverage, this can provide additional compensation in motor vehicle accident cases.
Navigating insurance policies requires the expertise of a seasoned personal injury lawyer to maximize recovery.
What Are You Entitled To Recover?
If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to two types of damages:
- Economic Damages
These cover tangible financial losses, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Non-Economic Damages
These address intangible losses, including:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of companionship or enjoyment of life
While both types are important, calculating non-economic damages often requires experienced legal representation to ensure that the compensation reflects the full scope of your suffering.
Get Help from New York City Personal Injury Lawyers
Determining the true value of a personal injury case involves analyzing many factors, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, preparing for trial. That’s why having an experienced personal injury attorney is critical.
At Godosky & Gentile, our New York attorneys have a proven track record of achieving maximum compensation for our clients. With decades of combined experience, we handle the toughest cases, from motor vehicle accidents to catastrophic injuries. We fight for you, your recovery, and your peace of mind. Your focus should be on healing—we’ll handle the rest.
If you're still wondering what your personal injury case might be worth, we encourage you to reach out for a free case evaluation. We can provide clarity and assurance during a challenging time.
Schedule your consultation today at (332) 210-4405, and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.