Determining the Value of a Personal Injury Claim in Virginia

When it comes to determining the value of a personal injury claim in Virginia, there are multiple factors to consider. And because every case is unique, with its own set of factors and circumstances, it can be hard to determine the claim’s value. Whether you’ve been injured due to a car accident, medical malpractice or negligence, a slip and fall accident, or a faulty product, it is important that you receive proper compensation for injuries and other losses resulting from someone else’s negligence.

If you’ve been injured in an accident and believe you may have a valid claim, it is always advisable to consult a Norfolk personal injury attorney. They will discuss your case with you and help you get an idea of how much it may be worth, and if your case is worth pursuing.

Types of Damages You Can Recover in a Virginia Personal Injury Case

In Virginia, you can seek compensation for economic and non-economic damages. And in some cases, you may be eligible for punitive damages as well. Economic damages are verifiable losses such as medical costs, lost wages, and property damage. These are things you can prove via receipts, medical records, etc. Non-economic damages are subjective and are more difficult to prove. This includes things like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment in your daily life. Punitive damages are meant to punish reckless or malicious behavior on the part of the responsible party and are meant as a deterrent for future behavior.

A Norfolk personal injury attorney will help you gather the necessary evidence to prove your damages.

Aspects to Consider When Determining the Value of a Personal Injury Claim in Virginia

The Cost of Medical Treatment and Care

The medical costs incurred by the victim of an accident are one of the main factors in determining the value of a claim. Medical costs include things like the cost of medication, medical procedures and equipment, any required therapy, transportation, and the fee for doctor and ER visits.

Additionally, if the injury is permanent, you are eligible for compensation to cover costs in the future such as continued medical treatment, surgeries, and lost wages.

Pain and Suffering

You can also get compensation for the pain and suffering caused by your accident and injuries. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are all examples of pain and suffering caused by an accident that you can recover compensation for.

Pain and suffering can increase the value of your personal injury claim in Virginia. Your attorney will guide you on understanding how to claim compensation for the negative impact that the accident had on your quality of life, so you should learn as much as you can about these damages from your attorney.

Contributory Negligence

Virginia is one of the few states that follow a contributory negligence rule. Contributory negligence means that if an injured party is found to be at fault for their accident in any capacity, they will not be able to recover damages.

In other words, if you are found to have any percentage of fault, even as low as 1%, you cannot receive compensation. For this reason, it is a good idea to hire a personal injury attorney to help you build an air-tight case to ensure you get fairly compensated.

Reach Out to a Norfolk Personal Injury Attorney at Virginia Injury Law

Because of Virginia’s strict negligence laws, working with an attorney can help ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Your attorney will work diligently to build a strong case, and because we work on a contingency basis you don’t have to worry about paying legal fees unless we win.

If you’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, Virginia Injury Law can help. Reach out to our personal injury law firm in Norfolk, Virginia today and schedule a free consultation with an experienced attorney.

Call 1-800-HURT-123 or contact us online to schedule your free case review.