One of the first questions many accident victims ask is, “What is my case worth?” It is a natural question. Unfortunately, there is no average personal injury settlement amount in Shreveport. Every case is different, and the value of your claim depends on several factors unique to your accident and injuries.
Several factors can influence the amount of compensation you may recover after an accident. Common factors include:
Severity of Your Injuries
The severity of your injuries is often the most important factor in determining settlement value. More serious injuries generally result in higher settlements because they require more medical treatment and have a greater impact on your life.
Examples of injuries that often result in higher settlements include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal organ injuries
- Severe burns
- Permanent disabilities
Injuries requiring surgery, lengthy rehabilitation, or lifelong care generally increase the value of a claim. Depending on the circumstances, these cases may result in settlements ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars or more.
Medical Expenses and Lost Income
Medical expenses and lost income often make up a large portion of a personal injury claim. Both your current losses and future needs may be considered. These damages may include compensation for:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospital stays and surgery
- Physical therapy
- Future medical care
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
The more extensive your treatment and the longer you are unable to work, the greater your damages may be. Keeping records of your medical treatment and lost income can help support your claim.
Pain and Suffering
Not every loss has a dollar amount attached to it. Louisiana law may allow you to recover compensation for the physical pain and emotional effects of your injuries. Pain and suffering damages may include compensation for:
- Physical pain
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
These damages depend on how your injuries affect your daily life. More severe or long-lasting injuries often result in higher compensation.
Liability and Evidence
Louisiana follows a modified comparative fault system. This means if you are partially at fault for an accident, your compensation may be reduced based on your share of the blame. However, if you are found to be 51 percent or more at fault, you generally cannot recover compensation from another at-fault party.
Evidence plays an important role in proving fault and strengthening your claim. Helpful evidence may include:
- Accident reports
- Photographs or videos
- Witness statements
- Medical records
- Expert testimony
The stronger the evidence, the stronger your claim may be. Even serious injuries may result in a lower settlement if liability is disputed.
How Your Injuries Affect Your Life
Insurance companies also consider how an injury has changed your daily life. Injuries that affect your ability to work, care for yourself, or enjoy activities you once loved may increase the value of a claim.
For example, your injuries may:
- Prevent you from returning to work
- Limit your ability to perform everyday tasks
- Keep you from participating in hobbies or family activities
- Require ongoing assistance from others
These losses may not come with bills or receipts, but they can still have a significant impact on your claim and the value of a potential settlement.
How Can a Shreveport Personal Injury Lawyer Help?
There is no average personal injury settlement amount because every case is unique. The best way to understand what your claim may be worth is to have a Shreveport personal injury lawyer evaluate the facts of your case and your injuries and damages.
There are several reasons to consider hiring a lawyer. A Shreveport personal injury lawyer can help with:
- Investigating your accident
- Gathering evidence
- Calculating your damages
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Representing you in court if necessary
Every personal injury case is different, and the value of your claim depends on your unique circumstances. An experienced lawyer can explain your options and help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to recover.
Contact Desiah Injury Lawyers To Schedule a Free Consultation With a Shreveport Personal Injury Attorney
The value of a personal injury settlement depends on the facts of your case, the extent of your injuries, and how those injuries have affected your life. While no attorney can promise a specific result, understanding the factors that influence a claim can help you make informed decisions after an accident.
For more information, please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Desiah Injury Lawyers at the nearest location for a consultation.
Desiah Injury Lawyers – Shreveport Office
333 Texas St Suite Suite 1300, Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 252-3034
Desiah Injury Lawyers – New Orleans Office
201 St Charles Ave #2500, New Orleans, LA 70170
(504) 553 3047
