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What is my Personal Injury Claim Worth?

Frank Penney • December 11, 2024

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Figuring out the potential value of a personal injury case can feel overwhelming. It all comes down to the type and severity of the injuries, along with the financial and emotional toll they’ve taken. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand how settlements or verdicts might be estimated under California law. Keep in mind that these figures are general ranges and can vary widely based on the details of each case.

Types of Injuries and Typical Settlement Ranges

Soft Tissue Injuries (e.g., Whiplash, Sprains, Strains)

Range: $5,000 to $25,000+

Details: Settlements for minor injuries with limited medical costs may be on the lower end, while cases requiring extensive therapy could increase the payout.

Broken Bones or Fractures

Range: $15,000 to $75,000+

Details: Fractures that need surgery or have long-term effects, such as limiting your ability to work, often lead to higher settlements.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Mild TBI (e.g., concussions): $50,000 to $150,000+

Severe TBI: $500,000 to $2,000,000+

Details: If the injury results in permanent cognitive impairment, loss of motor skills, or a need for ongoing care, settlements can increase dramatically. Tools like "Day in the Life" videos are often used to show the daily struggles of victims.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Herniated or Bulging Discs (non-surgical): $50,000 to $100,000+

Severe Spine Injuries (surgical or paralysis): $500,000 to $2,000,000+

Details: Surgical costs (ranging from $50,000 to $150,000) and the need for long-term care are significant factors that can drive up settlement amounts.

Shoulder Injuries (e.g., Rotator Cuff Tears)

Non-Surgical Cases: $25,000 to $75,000+

Cases Requiring Surgery: $150,000 to $400,000+

Details: Severe mobility loss or inability to work adds value to these cases.

Knee Injuries (e.g., ACL, Meniscus Tears)

Non-Surgical Cases: $15,000 to $50,000+

Cases Requiring Surgery: $100,000 to $300,000+

Details: Long-term complications like arthritis or reduced mobility can significantly raise settlements.

Permanent Disfigurement or Scarring

Range: $50,000 to $1,000,000+

Details: Factors include the scar’s location and visibility, emotional distress, and reconstructive surgery costs.

Wrongful Death

Range: $500,000 to $3,000,000+

Details: Settlements take into account the deceased’s age, earning potential, and the emotional and financial impact on surviving family members.

How Medical Bills Impact Case Value

Medical bills often act as a baseline for calculating damages. Lawyers and insurers sometimes use a "multiplier method" to estimate the total settlement amount based on medical expenses.

Examples:

$5,000 in Medical Bills: $10,000 to $25,000 settlement (2x–5x multiplier, depending on pain and suffering).
$50,000 in Medical Bills: $75,000 to $100,000+ settlement.
$200,000+ in Medical Bills: $300,000 to $500,000+, especially for severe injuries requiring long-term care.

Non-Economic Damages Can Boost Value

In California, damages for pain and suffering or emotional distress can significantly increase the value of a case. These are often higher for severe injuries or wrongful death cases.

Example: A spinal cord injury resulting in paralysis might include over $1,000,000 in non-economic damages alone.

Example: A wrongful death case involving the loss of a spouse could result in millions for loss of companionship and emotional support.

The Role of Insurance Policy Limits

The at-fault party’s insurance often determines the maximum recoverable amount, but there are ways to seek additional compensation:

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Your own policy might cover gaps if the other driver’s insurance is insufficient.
Multiple Defendants: If more than one party is at fault, your total recovery could increase.

Let Frank Penney Injury Law Help You

Understanding the value of your case requires a deep knowledge of California law, medical costs, and insurance tactics. At Frank Penney Injury Law, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for justice and have recovered nearly $500 million for our clients.

If you’ve been injured, let us help you get the compensation you deserve. Call us today or visit www.penneylaw.com. Remember, "You Can Bank on Frank!"

The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The content presented is not tailored to any specific case or set of facts and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional legal counsel. Every personal injury case is unique and requires an individualized assessment by a qualified attorney. We strongly encourage you to consult with a competent attorney to address your specific legal needs and circumstances. This blog makes no guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or relevance of the information provided, and we disclaim any liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content herein.

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At Frank Penney Injury Lawyers, Frank Penney and his staff work on a contingency basis. This means you only have to pay a fee if you win your case. We will never charge a fee unless we obtain a settlement on your behalf. No win. No fee. Case closed.

This means there is no risk in asking Frank Penney Injury Lawyers for help. You get to benefit from Frank Penney’s years of experience, knowledge, and success without needing to stress about the cost. Call today to set up a free initial case assessment or to learn more.

When I first contacted the Law Offices of Frank D. Penney after my accident, I was frustrated with car insurance companies, and medical insurance companies; after all, I was in pain. He and his staff put me at ease instantly! It was such a relief to have someone working on MY BEHALF! They were able to settle my case for more than I initially thought it was worth. THANKS AGAIN!!!

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