Many people wonder about the average settlement in a pinched nerve car accident because they believe it will help them understand their insurance claim value. However, there is no way to calculate an average that would apply to all crash victims who suffer this type of injury. There are simply too many variables that can alter the value of a collision case.
You may want to work with a traffic accident attorney to understand what a fair settlement looks like in your case. They know the most common damages suffered by accident victims and can investigate your case to build a solid argument for compensation.
How do My Injuries Affect the Value of My Settlement?
The injuries an accident victim suffers play a critical role in determining how much a case might be worth. The nature and severity of their injuries influence many other factors, such as how much their medical bills will be and how much time they miss from work.
You might incur these injury-related damages after a car accident:
- Medical bills
- Future care needs
- Prescription drug costs
- Lost income and diminished ability to work
- Pain and suffering
Other recoverable damages include:
- Repairing or replacing the damaged vehicle
- Rental car costs
- Miscellaneous expenses related to the accident
Lasting Effects of a Pinched Nerve Car Accident Injury
In some cases, a pinched nerve becomes a lasting injury. It may cause recurring pain and limited mobility. In addition, fear of aggravating the injury may restrict movement, and a pinched nerve could lead to disability.
For example, sciatica is a common complaint that stems from a compressed nerve in the lower spine. The pain is often chronic, or it comes and goes. It radiates from the lumbar spine, where the sciatic nerve lies, and down one or both legs. Some people experience numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected limbs.
If you have lasting effects from a pinched nerve, you could account for it when calculating the value of your claim.
Could the Circumstances of My Collision Reduce My Case Value?
It could reduce the potential settlement amount you receive if your actions contributed to causing the crash in any way. In most states, you can seek compensation even if you share fault in a collision if your share is less than 50 percent.
However, the Alabama Supreme Court, in a 1980 decision Golden v. McCurry, affirmed case law that holds that any percentage of shared fault will bar you from receiving compensation in the state. This rule makes defending yourself from accusations of shared responsibility critical.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 537-8185
What Is the Role of an Attorney in My Civil Case Against the Driver?
A personal injury lawyer can explain the value of your damages and negotiate a settlement that takes your bills – both current and future – into account. They will prepare and file your claim, demanding justice and negotiating a fair settlement agreement when possible.
They will offer advice and representation if you need to sue the at-fault driver. These cases do not usually go to trial, but it is possible. Your legal team will be with you every step of the way.
Each state has laws related to how quickly you must sue the at-fault driver. The shortest deadline across the Gulf South is Louisiana’s one-year period under La. Civ. Code Art. 3492. On the other hand, Mississippi allows up to three years to sue per Miss. Code Ann. § 15-1-49. Other factors could alter these deadlines and give you less time, so acting quickly is often in your best interest.
What Is a Pinched Nerve, and What do I Need to Know for My Case?
If you have a pinched nerve, you likely have pain radiating through your back, arm, or leg. You may also have numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the affected area. A pinched nerve occurs when an injury or inflammation causes compression of a nerve root. This injury commonly happens in the neck, mid-back, or lumbar area after a crash.
Conservative treatment methods like these often prove effective and allow for some symptom relief while the inflammation and irritation heal:
- Rest and ice or heat
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Oral corticosteroids or steroid injections
When the symptoms are severe, those with a pinched nerve may require:
- Physical therapy
- Narcotic painkillers
- Surgery
- Rehabilitation following an invasive procedure
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Morris Bart, LLC Helps Crash Victims Navigate the Claims Process
The Morris Bart law firm is a contingency fee firm that offers free consultations to car accident victims who suffered a pinched nerve or other injuries. The areas we serve include the entire Gulf South – Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Reach out to us today to discuss your rights and options for compensation.
Call (800) 537-8185 now to speak with our team for free.
Questions?Call (800) 537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
