Slip and fall accidents may result in emotional distress, serious physical injuries, and financial burden for victims. These injuries may vary from bruises to broken bones and severe head trauma, and victims could suffer mental anguish and financial difficulties for years. If you or a loved one experienced such an incident, learning the factors contributing to a higher settlement amount from the other party is helpful. This article discusses several factors impacting slip and fall settlement.
1. Extent of Injuries
The extent of injuries sustained by victims from the accident can increase the value of their settlement. It’s essential in the following ways:
● Medical Evaluation
Victims should consider a medical evaluation to create an official record of the severity of their injuries. It serves as presentable evidence for experienced attorneys preparing to file a slip and fall accident claim.
● Long-Term Impact
Severe injuries may have a long-term impact, such as continuous therapies or medical treatments that require higher medical expenses for victims. It may increase the settlement’s value.
● Permanent Disabilities or Injuries
Compensation for injuries sustained from an accident usually accounts for its impact on the victim’s quality of life, including accommodations if they result in permanent disabilities.
2. Evidence and Documentation
Victims should prepare documentation with verifiable evidence, and it’ll help their attorneys build a compelling case to influence the settlement:
● Videos and Photographs
With the videos and pictures, victims can show the court conditions that led to the unfortunate accident.
● Witness Statements
Reports from eyewitnesses often validate victims’ claims. Therefore, documenting the evidence can help your attorney give accounts of the precarious condition.
● Incident Reports
An accident can occur on another individual’s property. Should it happen to you or your loved ones, reports filed when the incident happened are official records that can help your case.
● Maintenance Records
If the negligence of the property owner is why you sustained injuries, get records of repairs, inspections, and property maintenance to maximize your settlements.
3. Economic Damages
The financial losses victims incur after slipping and falling are classified as economic damages.
● Medical Expenses
Medical costs associated with treating your injuries, from appointments with physicians to medications, emergency room visits, and rehabilitation, contribute to a higher cost. Present records of these expenses, and your attorney can make accurate calculations for a fair settlement.
● Lost Wages
If working becomes a challenge due to injuries sustained from the incident, consider getting compensated for the lost income during recovery. It applies to immediate and potential future income loss and lets your experienced attorney negotiate a high settlement.
● Property Damage
If your clothing, electronics, or other personal belongings were damaged during the accident, include the cost of replacing or repairing them in economic damages for a higher pay.
4. Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are losses that are significant but harder to calculate. For example:
● Emotional Distress
This includes sleep disturbances, depression, and anxiety feelings resulting from the accident. The extent of this emotional distress can increase the overall value of non-economic damages.
● Loss of Consortium
It refers to the impact the injuries have on your loved ones or family members. It encompasses the potential changes in your relationship dynamics to help your case.
● Scarring and Disfigurement
If you suffer disfigurement or visible scarring due to slip and fall accidents, you can get compensated for the emotional toll it takes on your confidence and self-esteem in non-economic dam.
5. Insurance Coverage
When pursuing slip and fall settlements, it’s advisable to understand insurance coverage as it may contribute to higher compensation:
● Property Owner’s Liability Coverage
If the property owner has liability insurance covering injuries that occur on the premises, it may maximize the compensation you receive.
● Insurance Adjusters
These professionals evaluate claims and negotiate settlements for the insurance company. An experienced slip and fall accident attorney can fight for your rights during negotiations.