A personal injury lawsuit is a civil action taken by an individual who has been injured due to the negligence or intentional act of another person or entity. When a person is injured, they may be entitled to compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The amount of money awarded in a personal injury settlement depends on a variety of factors.
The type and severity of the injury are two of the most important factors that determine the amount of money in a personal injury settlement. The more serious the injury, the more likely the plaintiff will receive a larger settlement. For example, a broken arm may result in a smaller settlement than a traumatic brain injury.
The emotional harm suffered by the plaintiff is also taken into consideration when determining the amount of money in a personal injury settlement. If the plaintiff has suffered emotional distress due to the injury, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder, this may be factored into the settlement amount.
The cost of going to trial is also a factor that can influence the amount of money in a personal injury settlement. If the defendant believes that the plaintiff has a strong case and is likely to win at trial, they may be more likely to offer a larger settlement amount. On the other hand, if the defendant believes that the plaintiff’s case is weak, they may be more likely to offer a smaller settlement amount.
Finally, the amount of money in a personal injury settlement may also be affected by the amount of insurance coverage the defendant has. If the defendant has a large amount of insurance coverage, they may be more likely to offer a larger settlement amount.
A personal injury settlement amount is based on the facts of each case. The type and severity of injury, emotional harm suffered, cost of going to trial and many other factors are considered by both sides. Often the settlement amount will be less than the plaintiff hoped for but more than the defendant hoped for.
It is important to remember that the amount of money in a personal injury settlement is not always an exact science. Each case is unique and must be evaluated on its own merits. If you have been injured due to the negligence or intentional act of another person or entity, it is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your case and determine the best course of action.
