A car crash alters your life in a split second. You might get injured, lose your vehicle, or end up dealing with huge medical costs. You might wonder just how much compensation you could obtain after an accident.
Just how much you receive is based on numerous variables. Understanding these factors will enable you to prepare for your case and obtain the best result.
Find an experienced auto accident attorney to represent you. An excellent lawyer will gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for fair compensation. However, other things influence how much money you receive. Consider the five crucial factors mentioned below.
1. The Severity of Your Injuries
The more serious your injuries are, the more your compensation might be. If you sustained minor injuries, your medical costs will be reduced, and your case could settle quicker. However, in case you have severe injuries like broken bones, long-term disabilities, or head trauma, you might get much more cash. This is because severe injuries lead to increased health expenses, lost earnings, and suffering and pain.
Insurance companies base compensation on health reports, physician opinions, and therapy costs. In case your injuries require ongoing medical attention, you might be paid additional for later expenses.
2. Who Was at Fault?
Fault plays a huge role in just how much money you receive. In the event that the other driver was totally negligent, you’re more likely to receive full compensation. But if you are partly at fault for the accident, you could possibly receive much less in settlement.
As an example, if you are 20% at fault, your compensation might be minus 20%. Several states ban you from getting any money in case you are over 50% responsible. That is exactly why police have to gather evidence—police reports, witness statements, and cam footage—to confirm another driver was at fault.
3. Coverage by Insurance
How much coverage you have may also impact your compensation. If the at-fault driver has very good insurance, you could receive full payment on your losses. However, when they just carry minimal coverage or no insurance at all, you might not receive very much compensation.
In these instances, you may need to utilize your own personal uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. This is exactly why it pays to go over your insurance policy and ensure you have sufficient coverage prior to an accident occurring.
4. Evidence and Documentation
Strong evidence could get you a larger settlement. The greater proof you have regarding your injuries and property damage, along with the fault of the other driver, the stronger your case is going to be.
You should gather the following evidence after an accident:
- Pictures and video clips of the accident scene
- Medical bills and records
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Proof of lost wages (in case you missed work)
Keeping detailed records will help when negotiating with insurers or even representing your case in court.
5. The Negotiation Process
Insurance firms generally attempt to pay the lowest possible cost. They might offer a low settlement at first and hope you will take it. However, in case you have a strong case and a great attorney, you can negotiate a much better sum.
Your attorney will negotiate on your behalf, with proof to support your claim. In case the insurer does not offer reasonable compensation, you might need to sue and go to court. An attorney is going to help you determine when to settle and when to battle for more.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining fair compensation following a car crash is dependent on the severity of your injuries, who was responsible, and also the strength of your evidence. A seasoned attorney will assist you throughout the process and increase your overall settlement.
In case you have been involved in an automobile accident, do not take the very first offer from the insurance company. Take your time, gather evidence, and consult a lawyer to ensure you get the proper compensation.
