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What Is My Personal Injury Case Worth

What Is My Case Worth?


If you’ve been injured in an accident, you may be wondering, “How much is my personal injury case worth?” The truth is, every case is unique, and the value depends on several factors, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and insurance coverage.

While it’s difficult to predict an exact settlement amount upfront, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand what similar cases have been worth.

At Herron Law, we provide free case evaluations to assess your claim and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call or Text 503-367-0829 today to discuss your case.


Before You Begin: A Cautionary Tale

“The Lawyer Promised Me $75,000 for My Car Accident Case”

Years ago, a man visited our office after being hit by a driver who failed to yield. He had already met with a billboard/TV lawyer who promised him at least $75,000 for his case. When he asked us, “How much is my case worth?”, we told him the truth: we couldn’t guarantee a specific number. Unsatisfied, he walked out. Frankly, we said, “Good riddance.”

Why We Don’t Promise an Exact Payout?

1. Medical Treatment Determines Case Value

At the time of the consultation, the man hadn’t finished his medical treatment. Until treatment concludes, we don’t know:

  • The full extent of injuries
  • Whether permanent disability or chronic pain will persist
  • Future medical needs and associated costs

2. Medical Reports Matter

Doctors’ reports provide essential details about:

  • The severity of injuries
  • Long-term prognosis
  • Physical limitations caused by the accident

Without this information, predicting case value is impossible.

3. Insurance Coverage Sets Limits

Many clients don’t realize their recovery depends on available insurance coverage. Factors include:

  • The at-fault driver’s policy limits
  • Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
  • Medical payments coverage (MedPay)

That TV lawyer who guaranteed $75,000? He never even checked the at-fault driver’s policy limits—a crucial factor in any case evaluation.

4. Outstanding Medical Bills and Liens

Your final payout is not just your settlement amount—it’s what’s left after covering:

  • Unpaid medical bills
  • Health insurance reimbursement claims
  • Legal fees and case expenses

5. The Police Report Isn’t Always the Final Word

While police reports are important, they aren’t infallible. Witnesses may provide new details, and evidence can shift case dynamics.

The Danger of Unrealistic Expectations

Why Early Promises Lead to Disappointment

When lawyers make bold promises early on, they create false hope. Many clients are disappointed when their settlement doesn’t match the number they were told. At Herron Law, we focus on facts—not flashy figures. If you’re seeking honest legal guidance, we’re here to help. But if you’re shopping for a lawyer who will tell you what you want to hear, we’re probably not the right fit.

How We Determine Case Value

Step 1: Calculating Special (Economic) Damages

Special damages refer to tangible financial losses, including:

  • Medical Expenses – Past, present, and future treatment costs
  • Lost Wages – Compensation for missed work
  • Lost Earning Capacity – If your injury impacts future earnings
  • Property Damage – Repairs or replacement of damaged property
  • Funeral Expenses – In wrongful death cases

Determining past economic damages is straightforward with medical records, pay stubs, and receipts. Future losses require expert analysis from medical and economic professionals.

Step 2: Calculating General (Non-Economic) Damages

General damages cover intangible losses, including:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Loss of companionship
  • Humiliation and emotional distress

Unlike economic damages, general damages are subjective. Courts often multiply special damages by 1.5 to 5 times based on injury severity.

Step 3: Adjusting Case Value Based on Additional Factors

Several factors can increase or decrease the final settlement amount:

* Liability Clarity

Cases with clear liability often settle higher. If you share fault, your compensation may decrease.

* Multiple Defendants

More than one liable party can complicate settlements.

* Plaintiff Characteristics

Your age, job, and credibility can impact settlement value.

* Court Location

Urban courts tend to award higher settlements than conservative rural areas.

* Failure to Seek Treatment

If you delay medical care, the insurance company may argue your injuries aren’t serious, reducing your claim value.

Step 4: Negotiating a Settlement Offer

Once your damages are calculated, your attorney will:

  • 1. Prepare a settlement demand letter outlining your damages
  • 2. Negotiate with the insurance company
  • 3. Determine if a fair settlement is possible

Many insurance companies lowball offers, hoping victims accept less than they deserve. This is why most people recover higher settlements with an attorney than negotiating alone.

If no agreement is reached, your case may go to trial, where a judge or jury decides the final award.

Why Promises of High Settlements Are a Red Flag

If a lawyer guarantees a settlement amount at the start, it’s a red flag. Case values depend on:

  • Medical evidence
  • Insurance policy limits
  • Long-term health impact
  • Liability clarity

At Herron Law, we believe in honest, transparent guidance—not false promises.

Get a Free Case Evaluation Today

How much is my case worth?”

The best way to find out is by speaking with an experienced personal injury lawyer.

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If you have been injured due to another’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Herron Law today and let us fight for the justice you deserve.

📞 Call 503-367-0829 today for a free consultation!