How Much is My Car Accident Worth?

When you’re involved in a car accident in Staten Island and start the process of negotiating with an insurance company, there are many factors that go into determining how much your settlement will be worth. The main factor is the extent of your injuries and other damages. However, other considerations such as who was at fault can impact your claim.

Your Staten Island car accident attorney should explore all these variables so you can better understand how much your car accident is worth. If you have questions, the attorneys of Kuharski, Levitz & Giovinazzo, Esq can help get the answers you need.

Determining the Costs of Your Injuries

The extent of your injuries will determine how much money you’re entitled to receive. If you were not severely injured and don’t need ongoing medical treatment, your medical bills following the accident and any property damage may be the focus of your claim. 

If you were severely injured in a car crash, you may be entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver who caused the accident for your economic and non-economic damages. A personal injury lawyer will help determine whether this is an option for you and how much money you may be able to recover through litigation.

Who Was At Fault for Your Accident?

New York car accidents are typically handled by the driver’s no-fault insurance. This insurance covers the costs of less-severe accidents regardless of fault. However, if you were seriously injured, you may need to pursue damages beyond the coverage of this insurance policy. 

In these cases, the other driver’s insurance company is typically responsible for paying for your injuries and vehicle damage. But if you were partially at fault or if both parties contributed to the accident, then you may have to share some or all of the responsibility for these costs under New York’s contributory negligence rule.

For example, if you’re found 20 percent liable for your accident and damages are $100,000, the other party’s insurance company will only have to pay you 80 percent. In other words, your car accident settlement will be worth $80,000, leaving you to pay for the other $20,000. Your car accident lawyer can help you protect the value of your claim and prove you weren’t at fault. 

Underinsured or Uninsured Drivers

If the person who hit you doesn’t have insurance, then you may need to rely on your insurance company, which may not be willing to cooperate, or on what the at-fault party is able to pay. 

If this happens, you may need a car accident lawyer to pursue the compensation you’re due. These claims can be complex, and it’s tough to be sure you’re getting the compensation you need for recovery. Your lawyer can help you determine your claim’s worth and seek out that amount. 

Talk to a Lawyer About Your Car Accident’s Value

After a car accident, you need to know what your claim is worth. Settling for less can cause financial trouble or leave you paying out of pocket for your expenses. 

At Kuharski, Levitz & Giovinazzo, Esq., we understand how tough your recovery can be. That’s why we’re here to help you determine how much your claim should be valued. To learn more through a free consultation, fill out our online contact form below or call 718-448-1600.