Attaching a price tag to the damages stemming from a serious wreck can be a tricky undertaking. Not only is the claims process notoriously unpredictable, but there are several different factors that could affect the value of your claim.  

However, this doesn’t mean that it will be impossible for you to settle your case. In fact, the majority of personal injury cases never see the inside of a courtroom, a strong indication that—with the right strategies and evidence—even seemingly insurmountable disagreements can be resolved during negotiations. 

With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the factors that could influence the value of your motorcycle accident claim: 

The Role You Played in Causing the Wreck

In California, personal injury claims are subject to the state’s pure comparative fault rules. Simply put, your financial award will usually be reduced by your liability. For instance, if you were 30% responsible for causing the crash, you will only receive compensation for 70% of your losses. 

The Severity of Your Condition 

A particularly serious injury will typically result in far greater losses than a relatively minor condition. As such, if your condition is severe, your case will likely warrant more compensation.  

For example, if you suffered a traumatic brain injury that will prevent you from working ever again, may affect your ability to live independently, and will result in a lifetime of medical costs, the potential recovery in your case could easily climb into six or seven figures. In comparison, a relatively minor injury like whiplash might only result in damages totaling a few thousand dollars. 

The Psychological Impact of Your Injury 

Not all losses are reflected by invoices, receipts, and bills. Some, like pain and suffering, are invisible scars that will undoubtedly have a detrimental impact on your quality of life. Accident victims often suffer PTSD, trauma, stress, and anxiety as a result of the wreck, their injuries, and limitations. In California, you have a right to seek compensation for such intangible losses.  

However, as these losses can be difficult to prove, you may have to provide many different types of evidence to show that you should be compensated. For instance, your attorney may ask you to start writing daily journal entries to document the effects your injuries have had on your life. Alternatively, psychiatric reports can also help give others a window into how you’ve suffered mentally and emotionally because of the accident. 

Speak to a California Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today 

Were you injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent or reckless motorist? It may be in your best interests to speak to a California motorcycle accident attorney. 

At HPIL, we can assist with almost every aspect of your personal injury claim, providing personalized representation from the first meeting until the final verdict. Through the years, our attorneys have helped secure more than $300 million in compensation for our clients, giving them the funds necessary to move on with their lives. Contact us today at 1-800-GO-HARRIS or jump across to our contact page HERE to request a free case review.