How the Math Works:

The settlement calculator uses a formula that takes into account three main factors:

1. Medical Expenses: This is the total amount you have paid or will pay for medical treatment related to your injury. This includes things like doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, and any other healthcare costs.

         2. Lost Wages: This is the total amount of income you have lost or will lose due to time off work for your injury. This includes your regular salary or hourly pay, as well as any bonuses, commissions, or other compensation you would have earned.

         3. Pain and Suffering: This is an estimate of the physical and emotional distress you have experienced as a result of your injury. This is a more subjective factor, but it’s an important part of personal injury settlements.

The formula is: Settlement = Medical Expenses + Lost Wages + (Pain and Suffering x Multiplier)

The multiplier used for the pain and suffering component varies based on the type and severity of your injury. The calculator takes this into account by allowing you to select the injury type and severity. For example, a severe head injury may have a multiplier of 5, while a moderate soft tissue injury may have a multiplier of 2 or more.

The goal is to arrive at a reasonable estimate of the total value of your personal injury case, which can then be used as a starting point for negotiations with the insurance company or opposing party.

What to Expect During the Claims Process:

Once you have calculated an estimated settlement amount, the next step is to file a claim with the responsible party’s insurance company. Here’s what you can expect during the claims process in Arizona:

1. Reporting the Incident: You’ll need to report the incident to the insurance company and provide details about what happened, when and where it occurred, and the injuries you sustained.
2. Gathering Evidence: You’ll need to gather documentation to support your claim, such as medical records, bills, and documentation of lost wages.
3. Submitting the Claim: You’ll need to submit the claim and all supporting documentation to the insurance company.
4. Negotiation: The insurance company will review your claim and may make an initial settlement offer. You’ll then enter into a negotiation process to try to reach a final settlement amount that both parties agree on.
5. Mediation or Arbitration: If you’re unable to reach an agreement with the insurance company, you may need to go through mediation or arbitration to resolve the dispute.
6. Lawsuit: If mediation or arbitration is unsuccessful, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit in court to seek compensation.

Throughout the claims process, it’s important to work closely with a personal injury attorney in Arizona who can help you navigate the legal system, negotiate with the insurance company, and ensure that you receive a fair settlement.