Factors That Can Affect a Car Accident Settlement

If you are not familiar with the factors that drive car accident compensation, you are not alone. From the severity of your injuries to the at-fault party’s policy limits, many elements can make these cases more complex than they may initially appear. Speak with our attorneys to learn about the various factors that can affect a car accident settlement.

How the Severity of Your Injuries and Your Medical Costs Affect a Settlement

Injuries requiring long-term care or causing permanent impairment often lead to higher settlements. This factor affects the compensation available after a car wreck because an injured person’s total medical expenses, including future treatment costs, are higher in these cases. A high-dollar claim must be supported by strong evidence, including police reports, photos of the scene, witness statements, and detailed medical records.

Time away from work and any permanent impact on your ability to earn a living can also affect the value of your claim. You may also be entitled to non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. This type of compensation is often calculated using a multiplier of your medical expenses, typically from one to five.

How Does the State’s Comparative Negligence System Affect Compensation?

Georgia operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This rule is an important factor that often impacts the outcome of a car crash settlement. Compensation is only available if you are found to be less than 50 percent at fault for the incident. If you fall below that threshold, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50 percent at fault, you cannot recover any damages at all.

Insurance Policy Limits in Car Accident Cases

To drive a vehicle in Georgia, state law requires that you maintain liability insurance for bodily injury. The minimum coverage amounts are $25,000 per person, $50,000 per incident, and $25,000 for property damage.

Insurance policy limits are a factor that affects settlement value because they cap the amount an insurance company must pay for damages from an auto collision. If your losses exceed these limits, an attorney from Smith Husley Law could help you pursue a claim against the at-fault driver. Otherwise, you may seek compensation through your own underinsured motorist coverage.

Contact Us to Learn About the Factors That May Affect Your Car Accident Settlement

There are several factors that can affect a car accident settlement, and our knowledgeable legal team at Smith Husley Law could help you understand them all. The most influential factor is often the steps you take immediately after the accident.

Schedule a consultation with our skilled attorneys today to learn how your unique circumstances may affect your compensation.

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