How Much Is My Case Worth?
Austin, Texas (TX)
Often, one of the most common questions that our
Lawyers hear is, “How much is my case worth?” or “How is a case valued?”
While this may seem to be a simple enough question, it is actually
difficult to determine the value of a case early on in the case. Just as
all individuals are different and the facts of each case are different.
Even the smallest of differences can make one case worth much more or
conversely much less than another. Because of this, we are unable to
give you an exact estimate of the value of your case until we have
discovered all the facts and you have completed all medical treatment.
Before an experienced lawyer can give you an estimate of your case
value, you must have been released from treatment by your medical
doctor. At this point, you will have most likely reached your Medical
Maximum Improvement. Then, we must submit all of your medical bills
(doctors, EMS, hospitals, etc.) along with our settlement demand package
to the at-fault insurance company in an attempt for a settlement. It is
likely at this point we will be able to give you an idea of how much we
believe your case is valued.
Here are some of the factors that go into determining the value of a
case:
·
cost of medical treatments (doctors, hospitals, therapy,
prescriptions, etc.)
·
need for rehabilitation, future medical treatments, or
surgery
·
degree of future disability, if any
·
written opinions of your treating doctors
·
test results from independent medical diagnostic groups
·
amount of lost wages due to injuries
·
probability of future lost wages, or lower wage earning
capacity
·
pain and suffering due to injuries
·
age of client, previous injuries, previous claims,
subrogation issues, etc.
·
defendant's percentage of liability
·
other possible damages (loss of society, etc.)
·
Damage to client vehicle
·
Damage to defendants vehicle
·
Gaps in medical treatment
·
Was the defendant drunk or did he/she flee the scene?
·
severity of physical injuries and permanence of injuries
Upon
retaining our Law Firm, we will collect all of the evidence and at that
point in time we can advise you of the value of your case. The value of
your case is based on a number of factors, both objective and
subjective. Factors considered for settlement value include the current
state of the law in fact situations like yours, past jury verdicts in
local Austin courts, and any offsetting non-reimbursable costs.
Ultimately, we must also seriously consider the "risk factor." The "risk
factor" is a decision which only you, the client, can make. It takes
into consideration the fact that any case can be won or lost through no
fault of the lawyer or the client. There are no “guarantees.” Accepting
a settlement without going to court eliminates the "risk factor,"
however the value of the case may be reduced if the case is settled
rather than going to trial. Our Law Firm can give you an estimate range
of the value, after the medical treatments are completed; final medical
reports have been submitted by all treating doctors; and after we have
reviewed all pertinent facts in your case, and counsel you as to the
best course of action.
It is our belief and philosophy to file a lawsuit against all
responsible defendants if it is determined that an acceptable settlement
cannot be obtained via settlement negotiations. Litigation can be an
expensive path option, and if possible we will use dispute resolution
alternatives do not produce the preferred results. Our philosophy of
using the least expensive alternative first usually (but not always)
saves our clients money and results in more net cash from your
settlement. If your case warrants litigation, we will advise on it, and
seek your full cooperation.
IF YOU HAVE BEEN INJURED IN AUSTIN AND NEED OUR LAW FIRM ON YOUR SIDE -
CALL US DAY OR NIGHT. THE INITIAL CONSULTATION IS FREE AND THE CALL IS
FREE. CALL TOLL FREE 1-800-862-1260
