What Factors Impact Your Personal Injury Claim Settlement in Dubuque, Iowa?
Car accidents in Dubuque are unwanted events that can result in severe injuries, monetary losses, and emotional distress. Victims of these accidents may be wondering if they can secure a favorable settlement with the party responsible for their injuries. If you are one of these victims, you must understand the factors that impact your claim settlement, so you can navigate the process effectively and make sure you get reasonable compensation for the damages you have incurred.
RSH Legal – Iowa Personal Injury Lawyers can educate you about your rights and help you pursue a strong claim against the at-fault party or their insurer. Below are factors that can affect your settlement amount:
The Extent of Your Injuries
A serious injury requires extensive medical care and treatment, long-term care, and rehabilitation. That is why it may lead to higher compensation. Examples of serious injuries include traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, internal organ damage, and soft tissue injuries.
Your Medical Expenses
To calculate the settlement amount you may want to demand from the other party, you should consider the medical expenses you incurred because of the accident. These expenses include doctor’s fees, hospital bills, physical therapy, medication costs, and necessary future medical treatments. To make the most out of your personal injury claim, document these expenses.
Property Damage
This damage includes vehicle repair or replacement costs or damage to other personal property that resulted from the accident. the extent of this damage is also considered when determining an appropriate settlement amount.
Lost Income
If your injuries prevent you from going to work, you may deserve compensation for lost wages. In addition, if these injuries have reduced your earning capacity or resulted in a disability that impacts your ability to work, you may be compensated for diminished earning potential.
Fault and Liability
In Iowa, you can still recover compensation for accidental injuries even if you are partially to blame for the accident. But you must be less than 50% at fault. Also, your settlement amount will be reduced by this percentage. Let us say you incurred damages worth $100, 000, but found to be 20% fault for the accident, you can only receive $80, 000 as compensation. Fault and liability determination requires investigation and evidence collection. This is where the services of a personal injury lawyer are invaluable.
Insurance Coverage
If the negligent party has enough insurance coverage, you may get a favorable settlement. But if they are uninsured or underinsured, securing compensation can be hard.
Pain and Suffering
Your attorney will consider your pain and suffering damages when determining a settlement amount. This includes physical pain, mental anguish, emotional distress, and loss of life enjoyment.
