How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?

It's the question every injury victim wants answered: what is my case actually worth? There's no single formula, but settlement value comes down to a handful of factors. Understanding them is the first step to protecting your claim.

Economic Damages: The Measurable Losses

These are the costs you can add up with receipts and records:

• Medical bills — both what you've paid and what future care will cost
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Out-of-pocket expenses tied to your injury
• Property damage, such as your vehicle

Non-Economic Damages: Pain and Suffering

This covers the human cost — physical pain, emotional distress, and the ways your injury has changed your life. A common starting method multiplies your medical costs by a factor (roughly 1.5 to 5) based on how serious and lasting your injuries are.

The Factors That Raise or Lower Value

• The severity and permanence of your injuries
• How clear the other side's fault is
• The amount of insurance coverage available
• The strength of your evidence and documentation
• Whether you share any of the blame (comparative fault)

Why the Insurance Company's Number Is Usually Low

Adjusters are trained to settle quickly and cheaply, often before you know the full extent of your injuries. Once you understand what drives value, you're far less likely to accept a number that shortchanges you.

This article is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different; for advice about your situation, contact a licensed attorney.