Our realistic settlement calculator is designed to help individuals estimate potential compensation for damages resulting from a personal injury in Georgia. By entering key details about your case, you can get an idea of what your claim may be worth based on common settlement factors.
While this tool provides a helpful starting point, it is not a substitute for our expert legal guidance. Every case is unique, and insurance companies often try to minimize payouts.
For an accurate assessment and personalized advice, contact our Georgia personal injury lawyers today.
The fields in our realistic settlement calculator
Our calculator considers multiple factors to give you a clearer estimate of your potential settlement. Enter the following details to get a realistic calculation:
- Total past medical bills ($): Enter the total amount of medical expenses you’ve already paid or been billed for due to your injury.
- Estimated future medical expenses ($) (optional if unknown): If you expect ongoing medical treatment, enter the estimated cost of future medical care.
- Lost wages due to injury ($): Enter the total income you lost because you were unable to work due to your injury.
- Expected future lost income ($) (optional if unknown): If your injury affects your ability to work in the future, estimate your expected lost earnings.
- Repair/replacement cost of damaged property ($): If your accident caused damage to property (e.g., your vehicle), enter the repair or replacement cost.
- Pain & suffering multiplier (1-5 scale): Choose a number from 1 (minor injury) to 5 (severe or permanent injury) to estimate pain and suffering damages.
- Percentage of fault assigned to you (0%-49%): Enter the percentage of fault (if any) that might be assigned to you; if unsure, leave at 0%. If you were 50% at fault or higher, you are unable to make a claim.
- Defendant’s insurance policy limit ($) (optional if unknown): If you know the at-fault party’s insurance policy limit, enter it here; otherwise, leave blank.
- Your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage ($) (optional if unknown): If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage on your policy, enter the coverage amount here or leave blank.
Disclaimer: The results from this calculator are estimates only and do not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique, and actual settlements depend on multiple factors. For personalized guidance, consult our lawyers.
Realistic Settlement Calculator
Reach out to our Duluth personal injury lawyer at The Brauns Law Firm for a more accurate estimate of your potential claim as part of a free consultation.
Types of damages to include in the personal injury calculator
Our free calculator considers different types of damages that may apply to your case, including economic, non-economic, and punitive damages.
Economic damages
These damages cover the financial costs of your injury, including both current and future expenses.
- Medical expenses: This includes hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and prescription medications related to your injury.
- Lost wages: If your injury kept you from working, you can recover the income you lost during that time.
- Future lost earnings: Severe injuries may impact your ability to work long-term, reducing your earning capacity.
- Property damage: If your car accident damaged your vehicle or other personal property, you can claim the cost of repairs or replacement within the settlement value.
Non-economic damages
These injury damages compensate for the personal and emotional toll of an injury, which can be harder to quantify.
- Pain and suffering: This covers the physical pain and long-term discomfort caused by your injuries.
- Emotional distress: Accidents can lead to anxiety, depression, or PTSD, impacting your mental well-being.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injury prevents you from enjoying hobbies or daily activities, you may be compensated.
- Loss of consortium: If your injury affects your relationship with your spouse or family, you may be entitled to damages.
Punitive damages
Punitive damages are awarded in rare cases where the at-fault party acted with extreme recklessness or intentional misconduct. These damages serve as a punishment and a deterrent to prevent similar behavior in the future.
While punitive damages are not available in every case, they may apply if the defendant was driving under the influence, engaging in road rage, or intentionally causing harm. Georgia law caps these damages at $250,000 in most personal injury cases, except for cases involving intentional harm or defective products.
The calculation method for non-economic damages
The two most common ways to calculate non-economic damages are the multiplier method and the per diem method. Our calculator uses only the multiplier method, as it is the standard approach in Georgia personal injury claims. Both methods aim to assign a reasonable value to pain and suffering.
Per diem method
The per diem method assigns a daily value to pain and suffering, multiplying it by the number of days an injury affects the victim. This method is more common in cases where recovery has a clear timeline, such as minor to moderate injuries that heal within months.
For example, if a daily rate of $200 is assigned and an injury lasts 180 days, the total pain and suffering compensation would be $36,000. This method can be difficult to apply in long-term or permanent injuries, as assigning a fair daily rate becomes more subjective.
Multiplier method
The multiplier method calculates pain and suffering by multiplying the total economic damages by a number between 1 and 5. The multiplier is based on factors like injury severity, long-term impact, and emotional distress.
For example, if a person has $50,000 in medical bills and lost wages and is assigned a multiplier of 3, their pain and suffering damages would be $150,000. Higher multipliers are used for permanent injuries, while minor injuries typically receive lower multipliers.
Per diem & multiplier combined
Some cases use both methods to ensure fair compensation, especially when pain and suffering continue beyond the initial recovery period. A per diem amount may be applied to short-term suffering, while a multiplier accounts for long-term effects.
For example, a victim may receive per diem compensation for the first six months of recovery, followed by a multiplier calculation for lasting effects. This hybrid approach is rare in Georgia but may be considered in complex injury cases.
Common mistakes to avoid when using our accident settlement calculator
Many people rely on settlement calculators to estimate their claim value but often make mistakes that lead to unrealistic expectations. Entering accurate information is key, and legal guidance helps ensure your estimate reflects what you may actually recover in your personal injury lawsuit.
Future medical expenses
A common mistake is only considering current medical bills while overlooking future treatments, surgeries, or rehabilitation. These ongoing expenses can significantly increase the value of a claim, and failing to include them may leave injury victims with a lower settlement than they need.
Consulting a doctor is the best way to understand long-term medical costs. A healthcare provider can assess whether future care, such as physical therapy or additional procedures, will be necessary, helping to ensure all medical expenses are accounted for in your claim.
Not including all economic damages
Many users focus only on medical expenses and forget to include lost wages, future earning capacity, or property damage. Overlooking these factors can lead to an inaccurate estimate that doesn’t reflect the full financial impact of an injury.
Before using the calculator, gather important documents like pay stubs, medical bills, and repair estimates. Having this information on hand ensures a more precise calculation and helps you understand the true value of your claim.
Misjudging the pain & suffering multiplier:
Many users enter an incorrect pain and suffering multiplier, leading to an unrealistic estimate. If you use a number that’s too high, your projected settlement may be inflated, while a lower multiplier could make it seem like your case is worth less than it actually is.
The correct multiplier depends on factors like injury severity, length of recovery, and emotional impact. If you’re unsure which number applies to your case, reviewing past case outcomes or consulting our lawyers ensures a more accurate estimate.
Ignoring comparative fault impact
Many users enter 0% fault in the calculator without considering that insurance companies often dispute liability. If you assume full compensation when you may share fault, the estimate will be misleading.
Even a small percentage shift reduces your settlement, so it’s important to input a realistic fault percentage for an accurate estimate.
Not considering insurance policy limits
Some users assume they will receive their full estimated settlement, but insurance policy limits often cap payouts. If the at-fault driver has only $25,000 in liability coverage but general damages total $100,000, the insurer will only pay up to policy limits—leaving a coverage gap.
Our lawyers will help identify other compensation sources, such as underinsured motorist coverage or umbrella policies. Without legal guidance, you may miss opportunities to recover the full amount you deserve.
Relying solely on the calculator instead of legal advice
A settlement calculator provides a basic estimate, but real settlements depend on negotiations, liability disputes, and legal strategy. Relying solely on the calculator without professional advice can lead to an unrealistic expectation of the value of your case.
Our lawyers can assess factors the calculator cannot, such as disputed liability, medical liens, or insurer tactics. Without legal guidance, you may underestimate or overestimate your potential settlement, affecting your decisions on whether to settle or pursue further legal action.
The factors that could influence your settlement amount
Several factors affect the final settlement amount in a personal injury case. While our calculator provides an estimate, real-world outcomes depend on elements like liability, medical evidence, and negotiation tactics.
- Severity of injuries: More serious injuries typically result in higher settlements due to increased medical costs, longer recovery times, and lasting disabilities.
- Length of medical treatment: Cases involving extended hospital stays, surgeries, or long-term therapy often lead to higher compensation.
- Evidence of liability: Strong proof, such as witness statements or video footage, strengthens a claim and prevents insurers from disputing fault.
- Comparative fault percentage: If you share fault, your settlement is reduced accordingly. If you are 20% at fault, your total compensation is reduced by 20%. If you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages.
- Impact on daily life: If your injury prevents you from working, enjoying hobbies, or maintaining relationships, it can justify a higher pain and suffering award.
- Insurance policy limits: The at-fault party’s coverage may cap how much compensation you can receive, even if your general damages exceed their policy limits.
- Our legal representation: Without our lawyer, claimants often accept less than they should because they don’t realize what their case is truly worth. We ensure every factor affecting your settlement is properly valued and accounted for.
Get the settlement you deserve— consult our Lawrenceville personal injury lawyer to maximize your claim.
Our personal injury settlement calculator isn’t a substitute for legal advice
While our calculator helps estimate potential compensation, it cannot account for every factor that influences your settlement. Legal guidance is essential for handling complexities that go beyond basic calculations.
- Handling negotiations: Insurance companies rarely offer fair settlements upfront. We push back against lowball offers and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
- Proving liability beyond percentages: Determining fault isn’t always straightforward. We gather expert testimony, accident reconstructions, and evidence that strengthens your case.
- Accounting for medical liens and deductions: Hospitals and insurers may claim a portion of your settlement. We negotiate medical liens to help you keep more of your compensation.
- Identifying all responsible parties: Some cases involve multiple liable parties, such as employers, manufacturers, or government entities. We investigate all potential sources of recovery.
- Calculating long-term financial impact: Our lawyers analyze medical reports and long-term care needs to ensure that your settlement reflects all future medical expenses. Without professional guidance, you could unknowingly accept a settlement that doesn’t cover the full cost of your recovery.
- Maximizing compensation beyond insurance limits: Many injury victims assume their settlement is limited to the at-fault party’s insurance, but other compensation sources may be available. We investigate additional assets, umbrella policies, and other liable parties to ensure you pursue the full amount you deserve.
Have you taken these steps after your personal injury accident?
The right steps after an accident can make a significant difference in your case. Consulting our experienced personal injury lawyer first ensures we guide you through every step below, protecting your rights and maximizing your claim.
- Consult our personal injury lawyer: We handle insurance negotiations, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on recovery.
- Seek medical attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, a doctor’s evaluation ensures proper treatment and creates medical records that support your claim.
- Report the accident: Notify the police, your employer (if it was a workplace accident), or the property owner so there is an official record of what happened.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Collect witness statements and get contact information for everyone involved.
- Keep track of expenses: Save all medical bills, repair estimates, and receipts for out-of-pocket costs related to your injury. These documents help prove your financial losses.
- Avoid discussing fault: Anything you say to insurance companies or on social media can be used against you. Stick to the facts and let us handle communications.
- Follow your doctor’s advice: Skipping treatments or ignoring medical recommendations can hurt your claim and give insurers a reason to argue that your injuries aren’t serious.
Get the compensation you deserve—consult our Peachtree Corners personal injury lawyer today for a free consultation.
Ask about our free consultation today!
Our personal injury settlement calculator is a great starting point, but it’s just that—a starting point. No tool can fully capture the complexities of your case, from unexpected medical costs to insurance tactics designed to minimize your claim.
Insurers often look for reasons to deny or reduce claims, leaving victims without the compensation they truly deserve. You may already know the extent of your injuries and losses, but there’s always the risk of delayed symptoms, hidden expenses, or unforeseen complications.
At Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC, we don’t just calculate numbers—we advocate for real people facing real challenges. Many accident victims underestimate their injuries or trust that the insurance company is acting in good faith.
A free consultation with our experienced personal injury attorneys allows us to assess every factor in your case, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. Call us at 404.528.2866 or contact us online to get started.
All of our useful calculators
- Car accident settlement calculator
- Neck injury settlement calculator
- Pain and suffering calculator
- Realistic settlement calculator
FAQs
Can my settlement be higher than what the calculator estimates?
Yes, settlements can be higher than the calculator’s estimate. The tool provides a general projection, but factors like strong legal representation, additional liable parties, and negotiation strategies can increase compensation. Our lawyers work to maximize settlements by proving damages and pushing back against low insurance offers.
What is the average personal injury settlement in Georgia?
There is no fixed average settlement, as settlements vary based on severity of the injury, medical costs, lost wages, and liability factors. Minor cases may settle for thousands, while severe injuries can reach six or seven figures. Our lawyers will review your case to determine a fair settlement range.
What is a typical amount of pain and suffering?
There is no fixed amount for pain and suffering, as each case is different. In Georgia, this amount is usually calculated using the multiplier method, where economic damages are multiplied by a number between 1 and 5.
The final amount depends on factors like long-term disability, emotional distress, and the way injuries affect daily life. A well-supported case with strong evidence of suffering can justify a higher multiplier.
What if I don’t know my future medical expenses yet?
If you don’t have an exact estimate for future medical expenses, that’s okay—many injury victims don’t. However, leaving this field blank could result in an underestimated settlement calculation.
Our lawyers work with medical experts to project costs for rehabilitation, surgeries, and long-term treatment. A proper evaluation ensures your claim covers future expenses, preventing financial strain down the road.
What if I don’t know the defendant’s insurance policy limit?
Our calculator includes this as an optional field because policy limits are not always immediately known. However, our lawyers will help investigate the at-fault party’s coverage through legal requests and negotiations. Identifying all available insurance ensures you pursue the maximum compensation possible.
How long does it take to receive a personal injury settlement?
The timeline varies depending on case complexity, negotiations, and whether a lawsuit is filed. Some cases settle in a few months, while others take over a year. Cases involving severe injuries, disputed liability, or multiple parties may require more time to reach a fair resolution.
Should I accept the first settlement offer from the insurance company?
No, because insurance companies often start with low offers to minimize payouts. Accepting too soon can leave you without enough compensation for future expenses. Our lawyers will evaluate your claim, negotiate with the insurer, and ensure you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
