When you get hurt in a car crash, you may wonder how much your case is worth. Every crash is different, but one rule always applies. The amount of insurance available plays a big role in how much money you can recover. Because of this, it helps to understand how insurance works. That topic is beyond the scope of this article. Here, the important thing to know is: “Who pays?” (or “Whose insurance pays?”) And: “What are the policy limits?” These questions are central to determining value in a personal injury claim after a car accident.
Liability Insurance Policy Limits
First, the other driver’s liability insurance pays for the harm they cause. It covers your injuries, lost wages, and pain. It also covers damage to your car. However, it only pays up to the policy limit. This limit can greatly affect your recovery.
Liability and Comparative Fault
Second, it is also important to understand liability and comparative fault in Louisiana personal injury claims. Liability means who caused the crash. Comparative fault means each person’s share of blame. Your recovery can drop if you carry any fault. For example, if a jury says you are 20% at fault, you may lose 20% of your money. Because of this, the identity of the person or company at fault is very important.
Next, your lawyer must study the facts to decide who holds the most blame. Sometimes several people or companies share fault. When that happens, strategy matters. It often helps when the person with the most fault is the one with the most insurance. Sometimes the facts support that, and sometimes they do not. If the person with the most fault has enough insurance to cover your losses, your chances of recovering full value for your claim gets a lot better.
When There Is No Insurance
If the at-fault driver has no insurance and you have no UM coverage, your case becomes very hard. It is tough to collect money from someone with no insurance. It can limit your recovery and slow your case.
What This Means for Your Case
As you can see, insurance and fault both matter a lot. They shape the value of your injury claim and your final settlement. Because every case is unique, you need someone who knows how to find all possible coverage and understand fault.
If you were hurt in a crash, you should consult with our personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
