How Much Is a Car Accident Settlement Worth with Multiple Injuries?
If you sustained more than one injury in a motor vehicle crash, it is important to understand how much a multiple injury car accident settlement is worth. The answer isn’t going to be simple, as each car accident has unique circumstances. Though a settlement for a claim involving multiple injuries is typically worth more than a settlement for an accident where the victim suffers a single injury, it all depends on your losses.
Understanding what a multiple injury claim is and what is considered when determining the settlement amount may give you a better idea of how much your claim is worth. A fair settlement will provide adequate compensation based on the severity of your injuries, the length of time you will need care, and the amount of your losses.
If you have sustained injuries as a result of another driver’s negligence, it’s in your best interest to contact an experienced lawyer to ensure your multiple injury car accident settlement represents fair compensation for your losses. Call Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi at (201) 585-9111 today for a FREE consultation.
What Is a Multiple Injury Claim?
A multiple injury claim simply consolidates your injury claims with the insurance company. If you are in a car accident and suffer more than one injury—for instance, a broken arm, broken nose, lacerations, and a concussion—you would submit a single claim comprising all of your injuries instead of a separate claim for each individual injury.
Many car accidents result in more than one injury. This type of claim reduces the number of separate claims. When submitting a multiple injury claim, you will report both mental and physical injuries that have resulted from the accident.
What Is Considered When Determining a Multiple Injury Car Accident Settlement Amount?
As mentioned above, several factors determine the amount of a settlement. The settlement is meant to compensate a victim for their losses after a car accident. Consideration factors may include:
- Medical bills
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Severity of injuries
- Length of time your life is impacted by the injury
- Accommodations that need to be made for a permanent injury or disability
When creating a settlement offer, adjusters are incentivized to pay as little as possible on your claim. They will push for a quick settlement with the goal of reaching an agreement before all of your injuries and losses have even had time to surface.
For these reasons, speaking with a personal injury attorney before accepting any multiple injury car accident settlement is beneficial. A knowledgeable attorney may be able to negotiate for a better settlement in the event that fair compensation isn’t offered.
What Kind of Damages Might Result from a Car Accident?
Two types of damages must be considered when determining a settlement amount or when asking for compensation in a lawsuit. These are (a) economic or special damages and (b) non-economic or general damages.
Economic Damages
Economic or special damages consist of quantifiable financial losses suffered by the car accident victim. These include, but are not limited to:
- Medical expenses (past & future)
- Property damage repair or replacement
- Loss of earning capacity
- Lost wages (past & future)
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic or general damages are less quantifiable. These are more subjective, dealing with the impact of the accident and injuries on the victim’s mental state and quality of life. These damages may include, but are not limited to:
- Disability or disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Pain & suffering
- Physical impairment
It is essential to take into account all of the damages suffered when considering a settlement. Does the settlement offer provide a reasonable amount of compensation for your damages?
When you work with a skilled car accident attorney, they can assess all the factors of your accident and negotiate a settlement with the goal of obtaining maximum compensation. They can also determine whether to pursue other legal remedies.
What Documentation Should Be Collected to Support a Claim?
The best way to ensure the maximum compensation in a personal injury claim is to collect all the documentation that supports it. This might include:
- Medical bills
- Medical records
- Witness statements
- Photos of injuries, damages, & the accident scene
- Estimates for repairs
- A copy of the police report
- Proof of income
- Proof of missed work & lost wages
- Prescription receipts
- Journal of daily pain levels & the impact the accident has had on day-to-day life
Proper documentation of the accident and damages is essential to prove your claim and establish your right to appropriate compensation. An experienced personal injury lawyer can also advise you on what you will need to compile.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney Today!
Car accidents are complex. If you are negotiating a multiple injury car accident settlement on your own, you may miss the opportunity to collect full compensation for your losses. The insurance company certainly doesn’t have your interests in mind. Rather, put your trust in a capable personal injury lawyer.
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. Contact the experienced lawyers at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi. Your initial consultation is always FREE and confidential, and there are no fees until your case is won.
