What Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?

There is no uniform settlement amount for personal injury cases, as each depends on the individual losses that someone experiences due to their injuries. The value awarded in a personal injury settlement depends on various factors, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and can be impacted by specific state laws. 

This guide explains the key elements that influence case value, helping you make informed decisions about your claim. While every case is unique, understanding the basics can provide clarity as you handle the process and seek fair compensation for your losses. A Maryland personal injury lawyer can discuss how your specific case would be handled best.

What Is a Recoverable Loss in a Personal Injury Case?

The biggest factors affecting the worth of your personal injury case are the following: 

• Complete Medical Assessment: From the initial diagnosis to your doctor’s release, your complete recovery must be accounted for, including consultations with specialists and whether you will need continued healthcare.
• Insurance Coverage Limits: The limits of the insurance policies held by the liable parties will affect the amount you may demand in compensation. 
• Impact on Life: How the accident has affected your day-to-day life, such as your ability to work or care for yourself and your family, is an important factor in determining the value of your claim. 

Once these factors are known, there are essentially two types of losses that are considered recoverable in personal injury claims. These are:

Economic Losses

Economic damages are financially measurable losses tied to your injury. These include medical expenses for treatment, surgeries, therapy, and future medical needs. They also include lost wages from time off work and loss of earning capacity if a severe injury affects your ability to work long-term are also included. Property damage, such as vehicle repairs in a car accident, may also be included here.

Non-Economic Losses

Non-economic losses include the emotional and physical toll of an injury. These include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life due to physical limitations or lifestyle changes. 

Maryland-Specific Laws Impacting Personal Injury Case Value

Every state has its own legal guidelines for recovering compensation after a personal injury. In Maryland, these guidelines include:

Caps on Non-Economic Damages

Maryland imposes statutory limits on non-economic damages, such as diminished quality of life. These caps can limit the total compensation you receive.

Statute of Limitations

In Maryland, your ability to recover compensation is also impacted by the state’s statute of limitations. Under Md. Cts. & Jud. Proc. Code § 5-101, you typically only have three years in which you can file a personal injury lawsuit.

Missing this deadline could bar your case from court and weaken your leverage for negotiating a fair settlement from the insurance companies. 

What Evidence Is Important for Determining the Value of a Personal Injury Claim?

Strong evidence is crucial for proving liability and demonstrating the full extent of your losses in a personal injury case. Below are some examples of evidence that can strengthen your claim.

Medical Records and Bills

Detailed documentation of your injuries, treatments, and medical bills provides concrete proof of your economic damages. Future treatment plans can also establish ongoing medical needs.

Police and Incident Reports

These reports offer an unbiased account of the accident, including statements from involved parties and witnesses, which can be critical in determining fault.

Photographs and Videos

Visual evidence of your injuries, property damage, or the accident scene can powerfully support your claim. These visuals help illustrate the severity of the incident.

Witness Statements

Testimonies from witnesses provide additional credibility and help corroborate your version of events.

Properly organizing and preserving this evidence ensures your case is strong and helps in achieving fair compensation for your losses.

Steps You Can Take to Strengthen Your Personal Injury Case

Taking proactive steps after an injury can significantly improve the strength and value of your personal injury case. Here’s what you should do:

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prompt medical care not only protects your health but also documents your injuries, creating essential evidence.
• Follow Medical Advice: Adhering to your doctor’s recommendations shows you are taking your recovery seriously, which is important for your claim.
• Keep Detailed Records: Document all expenses, including medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Maintain a journal to track pain, emotional distress, and lifestyle impacts.
• Avoid Admitting Fault: Be cautious with statements to insurance companies, police officers, or on social media, as they may be used against you.
• Preserve Evidence: Save photos, videos, and incident reports, and gather contact information from witnesses when possible.

While these actions can help your case, it’s important to note that you should always prioritize your well-being and medical needs. If you are unable to take these actions, a lawyer can do so on your behalf.

Benefits of Hiring a Maryland Personal Injury Attorney

Hiring a personal injury lawyer can provide invaluable support in handling your case. In addition to fighting for the maximum compensation available in your case, they can also help with:

• Navigating Strict Maryland Laws: Maryland’s caps on damages and statutory deadlines for filing personal injury lawsuits require precise legal insight to build a strong case and avoid pitfalls.
• Negotiating With the Insurance Companies: Lawyers are skilled in fighting back against insurers who offer low settlements, ensuring you receive a fair settlement.
• Access to Experts: Lawyers often work with medical professionals, accident reconstructionists, and other experts to strengthen your case.
• Contingency Fee Arrangements: Most personal injury attorneys only get paid if you win, meaning there’s no upfront cost for their services.

A lawyer ensures your rights are protected and helps secure fair compensation.

Contact Adam Smallow Injury Lawyers

After an injury, you may be dealing with expensive medical treatment, interruptions to your work and daily life, and a changed future.  Fair compensation can help you regain control over your life and your financial future. Our Maryland personal injury lawyers are ready to serve as your advocates throughout the process.

Contact Adam Smallow Injury Lawyers to get started with a free review of your case and let Adam fight for your recovery.