One of the first things you’re likely thinking after a car accident is whether everyone’s okay. Once you’ve sought medical attention and you’re sure everyone is safe, the next thing on your mind is probably the expenses that come with an auto crash.

We hear one question often: “How much is my Seattle car accident claim worth?” The answer can vary, depending on your crash and accident-related injuries, but it’s a crucial step to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation you need for recovery.

When you’re not sure how much that is, nor how to fight for that full value, reach out to an attorney from Craig Swapp & Associates for help.

Calculating Economic Damages

First, you’ll need to consider the financial costs of your claim. When you’re involved in a car accident, many things can be damaged all at once, and these expenses can add up. For example, your car will almost certainly be damaged, if not totaled. You’re hurt. You’re missing work. You might have even had expensive belongings in your car at the time of the accident.

Even with your auto insurance, your damages might have exceeded the limits of your policy. Plus, if you weren’t the driver responsible for the collision, you shouldn’t be left to pay for your damages anyway. You have a right to bring an injury claim against the at-fault driver to be compensated for your financial losses.

These damages should be simple to calculate, as you’ll just need to total the amounts that were billed to you. These damages will include several of the following:

  • Current and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Property damage
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Loss of value of property

What Are Non-Economic Damages?

Unfortunately, not all damages are so easy to calculate. You’ll also need to determine the value of your non-economic damages, which are the non-financial losses you’ve suffered from the accident. Any lingering mental or emotional suffering should be included in this part of your claim.

For example, after the accident, you might suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Although your economic damages should cover any treatment and therapy, you’re still suffering from the effects of PTSD. Your quality of life might be reduced; you might feel fearful and anxious; and you might be unable to drive because of that fear and anxiety.

Your non-economic damages should cover any of these losses based on the impact they had on your life. For example, severe PTSD can make it difficult to even leave your home, while milder trauma can cause nightmares and flashbacks of the accident. Speak to your lawyer about non-economic damages, such as the following:

  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Emotional trauma
  • Loss of security
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish

Get Help Calculating Your Claim

A car accident can leave you confused and struggling to manage your injuries and accumulating medical and accident-related expenses. How much is your Seattle car accident claim worth? That’s tough, too, if you don’t have the right tools to calculate the full and true value of your claim.

Fortunately, a Seattle car accident lawyer from Craig Swapp & Associates can help. We have the tools to make sure you’re seeking the maximum amount you deserve. We understand how to quantify those intangible damages that you deserve recompense for, and we’ll work diligently to achieve a positive outcome for your claim.

If you’re not sure where to start with your claim, we offer free claim reviews, where we’ll discuss how we can help before you sign anything. For more information, reach out to us by calling 1-800-404-9000 or by completing the following online form.