How Much Is a Whiplash Claim Worth?
Whiplash injuries are common in the United States of America. It is estimated that there are about 3 million whiplash cases in the United States, every year. Whiplash occurs when the neck moves back and forth rapidly and forcefully. This type of injury is quite common in car accidents. Whiplash is commonly caused by rear-end accidents, but can occur in any type of car accident. Even an accident that seems minor can cause whiplash. Often, whiplash results in pain, discomfort, and restricted mobility for the affected person.
If you suffered whiplash in a South Carolina car accident because of the negligence of another party, you should know that you have legal options for seeking compensation. However, determining the value of a whiplash claim is not a straightforward matter. It is not possible to state how much your whiplash claim is worth as there is no average compensation amount for whiplash claims. Several factors can affect the value of your whiplash claim.
Factors That Can Affect the Value of Your Whiplash Claim
Again, the compensation you receive for your whiplash injury is dependent on the factors surrounding your case. The following are some of the factors that can impact the value of your whiplash claim;
- The Severity of Your Injury
The severity of your whiplash injury will greatly influence how much you receive as compensation. Whiplash injuries can range from minor to severe, depending on how the collision occurred. The more severe the whiplash injury, the more compensation you can expect. This is because more severe whiplash injuries usually result in longer recovery periods, higher medical expenses, and greater pain and suffering.
- Medical Expenses
The cost of medical treatment, including medication, hospital visits, surgery, and therapy, can greatly influence the value of your whiplash claim. The compensation you recover should cover the entire cost of your treatment.
- The Impact of the Injury on Your Daily Life
When evaluating the value of your whiplash claim, one of the most crucial factors that will be considered is how the injury affects your daily life. This may entail looking at the level of physical pain and discomfort, restrictions on your ability to perform certain movements, and the impact on your ability to perform your job duties. The more the injury has lowered your quality of life, the more compensation you can expect.
- Prognosis
The amount you recover for your whiplash injury will depend on your physician’s prognosis and the likely impact of the injury in the future. Usually, cases involving long-term or permanent damage result in higher compensation.
- Insurance Coverage Limits
The negligent party’s insurance policy limits may cap the maximum compensation available for your whiplash claim.
- Your Involvement in the Accident
South Carolina is a comparative negligence state, which means that if you are partially to blame for your accident, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault.
- Quality of Legal Representation
Hiring a skilled car accident attorney increases your chances of recovering fair compensation. A skilled lawyer will accurately calculate your damages, gather evidence to support your claim, negotiate a fair settlement, and argue your case in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
Contact Us for Legal Help
Our skilled Charleston car accident lawyer at the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm can help you recover the compensation you deserve for your whiplash injury. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
