Neck injuries sustained in Kansas City car accidents can have a significant impact on a person’s life, causing pain, suffering, and financial hardship. The average settlement amount for a neck injury can vary widely, ranging from a few hundred dollars for minor injuries to hundreds of thousands of dollars for more severe cases.
The specific amount will depend on various factors unique to each case, which is why it is important to work with a Kansas City accident attorney who can fight for the highest possible settlement on your behalf.
What Damages Can You Claim for a Neck Injury in Kansas City?
When seeking compensation for a neck injury, you can claim both economic and non-economic damages in your insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. Economic damages encompass quantifiable losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and future medical costs. These damages are relatively straightforward to calculate based on bills, receipts, and employment records.
Non-economic damages, on the other hand, cover intangible losses like chronic pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. They are often referred to as pain and suffering. While more challenging to quantify, non-economic damages can make up a significant portion of a settlement.
What Factors Could Impact the Value of Your Settlement?
Several key factors can influence the value of your neck injury settlement. These may include:
- Severity of the Injury: More severe injuries, such as those requiring surgery or resulting in permanent disability, typically lead to higher settlements.
- Medical Expenses: The cost of your medical treatment, including hospital stays, medications, and rehabilitation, will make up a significant portion of your settlement. The more treatment that you require, the higher your potential award.
- Lost Wages: If your neck injury prevents you from working, your lost income will be factored into your settlement. If you cannot work for longer periods or even permanently, your settlement will be higher.
- Impact on Quality of Life: The extent to which your neck injury affects your daily activities, relationships, and overall well-being can influence the value of your non-economic damages.
How Can You Maximize the Value of Your Potential Award?
To maximize the value of your potential award, it is crucial to take certain steps. First, seek medical attention immediately after the accident and follow your doctor’s treatment plan. This creates a record of your injuries and treatment, which will help substantiate your claim. Collect evidence from the accident scene, including photos, witness statements, and a police report, to help establish liability. Keep detailed records of all expenses related to your injury, such as medical bills, prescription costs, and lost wages.
Most importantly, work with a personal injury attorney who can guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights. An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and more. If you have suffered a neck injury in a Kansas City car accident, do not hesitate to contact an attorney who can evaluate your case and help you pursue the justice you deserve.