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Maximizing Your Compensation: Understanding Settlements And Claim Value

  • By: Gennusa Firm
Personal Injury Claim form on a desk with a pen

Calculating The Value Of A Personal Injury Claim

The value of a personal injury claim is shaped by several factors, each contributing to the overall assessment of compensation. The severity of the accident serves as the foundation on which everything else builds, with more serious wrecks often leading to higher claims. Similarly, the extent of the injuries—both in their physical and long-term impact—plays a fundamental role in determining the claim’s worth.

Another key element is the type and duration of medical treatment required. More intensive and prolonged care naturally increases the value of a claim, as does lost wages, which account for the income you were unable to earn while recovering. Out-of-pocket expenses incurred as a direct result of the injury also contribute to the final figure.

Pain and suffering, though intangible, are also essential factors in calculating the claim’s value, encompassing both the physical discomfort and emotional toll the accident has caused. Finally, the total medical bills provide a clear, quantifiable foundation upon which the overall claim is built.

Together, all of these elements combine to form the full picture of what a personal injury claim is truly worth.

The Importance Of Ongoing Medical Care

Consistent medical care is essential in personal injury cases because it not only helps you recover but also strengthens your claim. Insurance companies look for gaps in treatment or failure to follow a doctor’s recommendations to argue that you aren’t truly injured or don’t deserve full compensation. Regular medical visits and adherence to prescribed treatments provide the necessary documentation to support your claim and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Maximizing Your Settlement Or Judgment

After an accident, taking prompt and informed action is vital to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Here are some things you can do to that end:

Contact An Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Immediately

Contacting a personal injury lawyer soon after an accident helps ensure critical evidence is preserved, and witnesses are interviewed while their memories are fresh.

Avoid Accepting Quick Settlement Offers

Insurance companies often offer lowball settlements that may not fully cover your expenses. Accepting an early offer can prevent you from seeking additional compensation later, even if more treatment is required.

Be Honest

Always tell the truth about your injuries and circumstances. Insurance companies investigate claims and your social media, and any discrepancies could seriously damage your case.

Get Medical Treatment

The value of your case depends on the type and regularity of medical treatment. Medical records are key evidence, so follow through on all prescribed treatments to strengthen your claim.

Get Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage

Louisiana requires drivers to have a minimum insurance policy of $15,000/$30,000/$15,000, which covers up to $15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident (if there are multiple victims), and $15,000 for property damage. However, with rising medical cost and car repair costs, it’s rare that this amount is sufficient to cover everything.

If the person who hits you has no insurance, you could be stuck paying for car repairs and medical bills out of your pocket. One way to protect yourself is to have UM/UIM coverage on your own policy. If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, your UM coverage will cover your car repairs and injuries. If the at-fault driver has insurance, but it’s not enough to cover your medical bills and expenses, then your UIM coverage will allow you to make a claim to recover the remaining costs.

Still Have Questions? Ready To Get Started?

For more information on Personal Injury Claim Settlements, a FREE initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (504) 308-0922 today.

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