Determining the Settlement Value of your Case

Posted Wednesday, August 26, 2015 by Chris Thayer

If you have been injured by the negligence of another person, it is a very natural response to ask, “How much is my case worth?” That is a very difficult question to answer, especially early in the case. As the full extent of your injuries become clearer, and other factors such as lost income and pain and suffering damages are determined, your lawyer will sit down and discuss a fair settlement amount for your case.

The Strategy

Other than calculating your actual damages, your lawyer will consider such issues as how you might perform as a witness if the case were to proceed to trial and which insurance company is involved. With your agreement, an acceptable settlement range will be arrived at; but the number your lawyer will present to the insurer will be different.

Rejecting the First Offer

Knowing that insurance adjusters will almost always reject the first settlement demand, knowledgeable counsel will initially submit a number exceeding the agreed upon range. The actual dollar amount will be crafted to allow each side room to negotiate in an effort to ultimately arrive at a final settlement within the desired range.

Excessive Demands

Although it may seem a good idea to the plaintiff to demand a large amount in hopes of getting more out of the settlement than anticipated, that tactic can back-fire. Insurance companies will often cut off negotiations with a party who makes what they consider to be unreasonable demands and force the matter to trial, which involves more time, more expense and greater uncertainty.

Contact Experienced Injury Lawyers Seattle for Legal Advice

Understanding the process a personal injury claim evolves through is a key factor in receiving a fair settlement. For any questions at any stage of your case, call Chris Thayer, a personal injury attorney 98101, at (866) 884-2417.