How Much is My Claim Worth?

When you have been hurt in a car accident, you may be unsure how to value your case. You may know that you need compensation for your injuries and the damage to your vehicle, but you may be unsure what other damages you could be entitled to. Unfortunately, uncertainty in this area can lead to substantial losses if not handled properly.

If you are unsure what your compensation is worth, you may settle for less. That means you may receive a car accident settlement offer that does not cover the full scope of your damages. Rather than pay out of pocket for your losses, demand the total value of your damages.

Your Claim’s Value Depends on the Specifics of Your Accident

When a car accident happens, the value of your personal injury claim often depends on the damages suffered. These damages can vary depending on the accident type, the severity of the damages, and their impact on your life. Remember that you may be entitled to some or all of the following compensatory damages.

Economic Damages

When you are hurt in a car accident, one of the most significant issues you may suffer is the financial costs of your recovery. Economic damages cover any financial suffering you have experienced, including the cost of your injury recovery, car repairs, and any time off work you have taken because of your accident. You need to be able to calculate these values, including estimating the cost of future economic losses because of the accident.

Non-Economic Damages

Your non-economic damages, also known as pain and suffering, cover the intangible losses you have suffered as described under California Civil Code 1431.2. Since these damages cover the mental and emotional toll of your accident, you may need help calculating these intangible types of suffering.

You May Be Eligible for Punitive Damages

Your compensatory damages above should cover any financial, mental, or emotional damage you have suffered. However, your damage may go beyond that. In serious cases, you may even be awarded punitive damages. Under California Civil Code Section 3294, punitive damages cover damages awarded to punish the at-fault party.

These damages are offered in hopes of deterring dangerous or malicious behavior. For example, if another driver struck you in a fit of road rage, you may be due punitive damages because they intentionally harmed you. However, these damages are not offered in every case and can be difficult to pursue.

Get Legal Guidance for Help Determining What Your Claim Is Worth

When you are injured in a car accident, settling for last may not be an option. Your injuries may be severe, you may be unable to recover without help, and you may be unsure what your claim is worth. In these cases, you may need legal advice to ensure that you are getting the total and fair compensation you deserve.

At Rosenthal Law, we offer legal support to car accident victims who are unsure what the value of their case may be. During a free consultation, we can review the details of your case and determine what damages you may be eligible for. To learn more about your claim, call our office or fill out our online contact form for a 100% free consultation.