How Much Is My Car Accident Claim Worth?

Following a car accident, many people immediately wonder: “What’s the value of my claim?”

The reality is that there isn’t a simple, universal answer. Each situation is unique, and your claim’s worth is influenced by a variety of factors — including medical expenses, emotional distress, and more. Here’s an overview of what affects the value of your claim.

Medical bills are usually the biggest driver of claim value. This includes:

• Emergency room visits and hospital stays
• Surgeries and follow-up care
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Prescription medications
• Future medical needs

The more severe and long-lasting the injury, the higher the claim.

If your injuries keep you from working, you may be entitled to:

• Reimbursement for missed paychecks
• Compensation for reduced hours or job changes
• Loss of future earning capacity if you can’t return to your old career

The cost to repair or replace your vehicle is also factored in. While it’s usually less than medical costs, it still adds weight to your claim.

Not all damages are financial. You may be compensated for:

• Physical pain and discomfort
• Emotional distress (anxiety, depression, PTSD)
• Loss of enjoyment of life

These non-economic damages can significantly increase a settlement.

Your state’s laws and the degree of fault matter. For example:

• In comparative negligence states, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
• In contributory negligence states, being even slightly at fault can bar recovery entirely.

Even if your damages are high, insurance policy limits often cap how much you can collect. In some cases, pursuing a lawsuit may be necessary to recover more.