Slip and fall accidents are unfortunately a common occurrence. From slipping over wet and cluttered floors to icy sidewalks, these accidents are often not a reason for alarm. However, some cases are serious and call for medical evaluation and treatment. For example, minor bruises are easily treatable at home, but severe harm such as head injuries or broken bones require hospitalization. Because nobody is adequately prepared for such eventuality, victims usually suffer unforeseen financial losses.
Like many other accidents, most slips and falls are attributed to negligence by property managers and owners. Their failure to eliminate unsafe conditions that would lead to foreseeable accidents makes them accountable for the damages that follow. If you or your loved one was injured in a similar occurrence where negligence can be traced to one or more parties, you have a chance to hold them financially and legally accountable for the injuries and other losses you suffer. You may file a claim against their insurance companies demanding compensation for economic and non-economic damages. When determining the value of a Missouri City slip and fall accident claim, it is crucial to consult with an experienced attorney who can assess the full extent of your losses and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Factors Affecting the Value of Slip and Fall Accident Claims
Before filing a claim, your first order of business is establishing the amount to sue for. Unfortunately, assessing the worth of a Missouri City slip and fall incident is not a walk in the park. For instance, putting a dollar figure on intangible losses is not something you can do alone. You need professionals such as financial experts and economists to help value your claim. This will not only allow you to sue for the right amount, but also put you a step ahead of insurance companies as you prepare to negotiate maximum compensation. That said, so much goes into making a successful slip and fall accident claim. Some of these factors are:
Liability
When filing any type of personal injury claim, you carry the burden of proof to show that another party was responsible for the conditions that caused your injuries. By doing so, you make them legally and financially accountable for the damages you seek. Because Texas is a comparative negligence state, the fault may be shared among the parties involved. It is up to your legal team to investigate and ascertain liability.
The results will ultimately impact the value of your claim mainly because your contribution to the harm suffered will be brought to light. When this happens, the value of your slip and fall accident claim will eventually suffer a blow. The payout you receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if your claim is worth $50,000 and you are 25% to blame, you can only receive up to $37,500.
Damages
The biggest determinant of the value of personal injury claims is the extent of damages suffered. These are tangible and intangible losses one suffers in the aftermath of an accident. Damages in a slip and fall accident may include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost future earnings
- Diminished quality of life
- Rehabilitation costs
- Therapy costs
- Wrongful death
- Physical pain and suffering
These damages paint a picture of the compensation you deserve. Any settlement offer achieved through negotiations with insurance companies or court processes must cover these losses. Some losses are not easily quantified into monetary figures, and thus require the expertise of financial experts. With their help, you can discover the value of pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, and emotional trauma. Basically, the more damages you suffer, the higher the value of your slip and fall incident claim.
For a free legal consultation, call (832) 449-8230
Settling with Insurance Companies VS Proceeding to Court
The legal avenue you choose for your claim will definitely affect its value, especially when determining the worth of a Missouri City slip and fall accident claim. For instance, some insurance companies may employ bad faith insurance tactics to lower settlements. If you are not aggressive, you may end up accepting lowball offers or having your claim denied. However, with a skilled attorney by your side, who can present an indisputable case before the jury, proceeding to a trial may result in higher compensation. Additionally, punitive damages, which are not awarded out of court, could potentially increase the overall compensation you receive for your injuries and losses.
Call for Help Determining the Value of a Slip and Fall Accident Claim in Missouri City
The hassle of determining the value of a Missouri City slip and fall accident claim should be left with a seasoned attorney. With their qualifications, they are best suited to work with experts such as economists to help put a maximum dollar figure to your claim. Call our offices today to schedule a meeting with our attorneys to discuss more about your case.
Call or text (832) 449-8230 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form