“My Case Worth What?”: 5 Things That Impact Your Personal Injury Settlement

Understanding what truly determines the value of your personal injury case can make all the difference.

Top 5 Factors That Determine the Value of Your Personal Injury Case

When you’ve been injured because of someone else’s negligence, the first question is usually “Should I sue?” 

The second one is typically “How much is my case worth?”

Just like consulting “Dr. Google” when you’re sick can have you spiraling into making your funeral arrangements, relying on ChatGPT to assess the value of your case can be equally misleading.  

While every personal injury case is unique, a few key factors consistently influence how much compensation you may be entitled to, and consulting with an experienced firm like The Edwards Firm LLP about the specifics of your case can help you make a more accurate assessment. 

Assuming the other party’s liability for your injuries can be clearly established, here are the top five factors that can affect the value of your personal injury claim:

1. The Severity of Your Injuries

The more serious your injuries, the higher your case value may be. Permanent disabilities, chronic pain, injuries requiring surgery and extensive recovery time typically lead to larger settlements. 

Documentation from medical professionals is key so always follow up with your doctors and follow any recommended treatment plan such as physical therapy. Failing to treat (or treating inconsistently) can significantly undermine the value of your case, as it leaves room for the liable party to question the severity of your injuries. 

Also, keep detailed medical records and a “pain journal” detailing things like your pain levels and a running list of all the things you can no longer do or have difficulty doing since your accident.    

2. Medical Expenses & Future Care Costs

Your current and future medical costs—hospital stays, therapy, medications, and any ongoing treatments—play a major role in the value of your case. Our firm works closely with your healthcare providers to ensure future care costs are also factored into your claim, not just what you’ve already paid.

3. Lost Wages & Earning Capacity

If your injuries prevent you from working or reduce your ability to earn now or in the future, those lost wages are part of your damages. Even temporary time off work can add up quickly. We calculate both past and future losses to protect your financial recovery.

4. Pain, Suffering & Quality of Life

Beyond the bills, personal injury law also recognizes your injuries affect your day-to-day life, including emotional pain and loss of enjoyment of life activities you once loved, like riding your bike or playing with your kids. These non-economic damages can significantly increase your case value when documented properly through medical records, testimony and personal statements.

5. The Liable Party’s Insurance Policy Limits

However, even if your damages are significant, your recovery can sometimes be limited by the amount of the at-fault party’s insurance coverage.

For example, if the negligent driver only carries the minimum policy required by New York law for bodily injury (currently $25,000 per person), that may cap how much their insurer is obligated to pay — regardless of your medical bills or pain and suffering.

That’s why we also explore other potential sources of recovery, such as:

• Underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy

• Employer or commercial insurance (for company vehicles or contractors)

• Umbrella policies or third-party liability

Understanding these limits early helps us build a strategy that seeks the maximum possible compensation available under all applicable policies.

💬 Our Takeaway

Every case tells a story—and your story matters. At The Edwards Firm LLP, we don’t use a “one size fits all” approach. We take the time to understand your injuries, your life, and your goals so we can pursue the compensation you truly deserve. 

If you or someone you know has been injured, don’t wait to learn what your case might be worth.

📞 Call us today at (844) 8-FIGHT-E for a free consultation or fill out a request for a Free Case Evaluation.

Fighting & Winning,

Lennon C. Edwards, Esq.

Founding Partner

Monique Carkum Edwards, Esq.

Managing Partner