If you have been injured in a car accident, you may wonder how much your case is worth. The answer to this question can vary depending on the facts of your case and the severity of your injuries.
At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, our experienced personal injury attorneys have a proven track record of success in personal injury cases. We will thoroughly investigate your case and build a strong claim to get you the personal injury settlement you deserve.
Damages Available to Car Accident Victims
Two types of damages may be available in a car accident claim: economic and non-economic.
Types of Economic Damages
Economic damages are those that have a specific dollar value attached to them. Examples of monetary damages include:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages (past and future)
- Property damage
Types of Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are more difficult to quantify than economic damages. Examples of non-economic damages include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Factors That Affect the Value of Your Case
Several factors can affect the value of your car accident case. Some of these factors include:
- The severity of your injuries
- The extent of your property damage
- The amount of lost wages you have incurred
- Whether you were partially at fault for the accident
The Severity of Your Injuries
The severity of your injuries is one of the most critical factors that will affect the value of your case. In general, the more serious your injuries, the more compensation you will be entitled to receive. The type of injuries you have sustained can also affect the value of your case. For example, a broken bone may be worth less than a traumatic brain injury.
Additionally, how much medical treatment you need and how long you will need it can also affect the value of your case. For example, if you require surgery or long-term hospitalization, your medical expenses may be more extensive, and your case will be worth more than if you only needed to see a doctor for a few weeks.
The Extent of Your Property Damage
Another factor that can affect the value of your car accident case is the extent of your property damage. The more damage your vehicle has sustained, the more your case will be worth. If your car was totaled in the accident, you would likely be entitled to receive more compensation than if it only sustained minor damage.
The Amount of Lost Wages You Have Incurred
If you have lost wages as a result of your car accident, you may be able to recover these damages in your case. The amount of lost wages you can recover will depend on your lost income and whether you can return to work.
Whether You Were Partially at Fault for the Accident
North Carolina follows the pure contributory negligence rule. This means that if you were even partially at fault for the accident, you would not be able to recover any damages in your case. However, if the other driver was entirely at fault for the accident, you may be entitled to receive total compensation for your damages.
Additional Factors to Consider When Valuing a Car Accident Case
In addition to the above factors, you should consider a few other things when valuing your car accident case.
- The insurance policy limits the at-fault driver. If the at-fault driver has a low insurance policy limit, you may not be able to recover the full value of your damages from their insurance company. Once the at-fault driver has tendered their policy limits, you may have to file an Underinsured Motorist (UIM) claim with your auto insurance carrier in order to receive additional compensation.
- The Statute of Limitations. The statute of limitations is the time limit you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. The statute of limitations for car accident cases in North Carolina is three years. This means that if you do not file your lawsuit within three years of the date of the accident, you will not be able to recover any compensation.
Estimating the Value of Your Case
The best way to estimate the value of your car accident case is to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer. An attorney will be able to review the facts of your case and help you determine what type and amount of compensation you may be entitled to receive.
How Much Is the Average Car Accident Settlement in North Carolina?
There is no such thing as an “average” car accident settlement. The compensation you are entitled to receive will depend on your case’s specific facts and circumstances.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Car Accident Case?
The time it takes to settle a car accident case depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries and the insurance companies involved. Car accident cases can generally take a few months to a few years to resolve.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney in North Carolina Today
If you have been injured in a car accident, we encourage you to contact us today for a free consultation. Our experienced personal injury lawyers will review the facts of your case and help you understand what compensation you may be entitled to receive. We serve clients in Hickory, Concord, Greenville, Raleigh, Durham, and Charlotte, North Carolina. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
