Do You Always Get Settlements From Car Accidents In Riverdale, Georgia?

Many people who have been involved in car accidents wonder if they are entitled to compensation through a settlement. Personal injury payouts are not guaranteed in every case. Settlements from car accidents hinge on factors like the accident’s circumstances, liability, insurance coverage, and damages. If you would like to learn more about the possible outcomes of your case, consider reaching out to the Riverdale car accident lawyers at Hall & Lampros, LLP, who have won over $400 million for Georgia clients. Schedule a consultation by calling (404) 876-8100 today.

What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident?

Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all dollar amount for these cases, so averages can be misleading. Since every case is unique, settlements from car accidents can range from a few thousand dollars to millions in damages. If you win your case, you will recover damages from the liable party, according to the American Bar Association, but the amounts can vary widely. Some of the key factors that influence the settlement amount include:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical costs
• Property damage
• Lost earnings
• Pain and suffering
• Liability
• Insurance coverage

Remember, not all car accident cases result in settlements. Some may go to trial, during which a judge or jury will determine the outcome.

How Do You Calculate Settlement Amounts?

Calculating a personal injury claim settlement, such as for a car accident, involves several steps and considerations. Personal injury payouts are based on a few important factors, including:

• Assessing liability—First, investigators and various legal teams will determine who is at fault. The liable party’s insurance may need to compensate the injured party.
• Quantifying damages—These are tangible financial losses caused by the accident. They include medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Intangible losses are harder to quantify. They may consist of physical pain, emotional distress, and overall suffering.
• Using the multiplier method—In some cases, non-economic damages are calculated by multiplying total economic damages by a factor typically ranging from 1.5 to 5.
• Agreeing to a settlement—Once both parties agree on a settlement amount, the injured party will receive a settlement agreement outlining the terms and the amount.

Because determining the most appropriate amount for a settlement can be difficult, many people choose to seek legal assistance. An experienced personal injury attorney at Hall & Lampros, LLP, may be able to provide valuable guidance while navigating this complex process.

Common Mistakes Could Affect Your Settlement

When pursuing a personal injury settlement, it is important to avoid common mistakes that could hinder the chances of receiving fair compensation. One of the most significant is failing to seek immediate medical care after an accident. Not only can this jeopardize the injured party’s health, but it can also weaken a claim. Insurance companies may argue that the injuries were not severe or did not result from the accident because the injured party did not seek immediate treatment. By understanding these common mistakes, you can strengthen your personal injury claim and improve your chances of securing a fair and just settlement.

Not Gathering or Recording Evidence

Another common mistake is failing to gather and preserve evidence, such as photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, or accident reports. This lack of documentation can weaken a person’s case, as memories fade, and evidence can disappear over time. While gathering evidence, be sure not to admit fault or apologize at the accident scene, as statements of this type may be used against you later. Stick to the facts when discussing the incident with others, including the police and insurance adjusters. Keep thorough records of:

• Your injuries
• Medical treatments
• Recovery process

These include medical bills, doctors’ notes, and photographs of the injuries. Failing to document progress can make it challenging to prove the extent of a person’s damages.

Talking to the Insurance Company

Insurance companies may request a recorded statement from the injured party shortly after the accident. However, when choosing to provide one without consulting an attorney first, it is important to remember that your words can be used against you.

Additionally, the liable party’s insurance company may offer a quick settlement soon after the accident, hoping the injured party will accept a low amount. Consider consulting with a personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement offer to help ensure that the amount is fair based on your damages.

Not Seeking Full Damage

Some individuals undervalue their claims, often settling for less than they deserve. If you have been injured, be sure to consider all potential damages, including future medical expenses, reduced earning capacity, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

Not Following Medical Advice or Orders

Always follow your doctor’s orders and go to all necessary appointments. If you truly disagree with a treatment plan, seek a second opinion from another qualified provider. If you neglect medical treatment or therapy, the insurance company may argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.

Not Filing on Time

According to Consumer Safety, each jurisdiction has a statute of limitations that sets a deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit. Failing to file a claim within this timeframe can result in losing the right to seek compensation for damages.

Reach Out to a Riverdale Personal Injury Attorney Today

Settlements from car accidents are common, but you may want to have an experienced legal team to protect your interests during the settlement process. If you have injuries or damages after a car accident, consider contacting a Riverdale, Georgia, personal injury attorneys at Hall & Lampros, LLP, to schedule a consultation by calling (404) 876-8100.

Mike

Find top rated attorneys and law firms profiles with Find Attorneys Directory, the best and free online attorney directory. Guest bloggers can also publish their articles here as other bloggers are doing.