Calculating a personal injury settlement can feel like solving a complex math problem—especially when you’re recovering from an accident. While no two cases are the same, understanding how Missouri law approaches these claims can give you clarity and peace of mind. Let’s break down how settlements are typically calculated and how an experienced attorney can help you maximize your compensation.
Step 1: Understanding Economic and Non-Economic Damages
Missouri personal injury settlements are based on two main categories:
✅ Economic Damages
These are tangible financial losses directly related to your injury, including:
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Medical bills (past and future)
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Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
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Rehabilitation and therapy costs
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Property damage
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Out-of-pocket expenses (travel, childcare, etc.)
These are typically supported by receipts, medical records, or employer documentation.
✅ Non-Economic Damages
These are subjective, emotional, and psychological damages, such as:
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Pain and suffering
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Emotional distress
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Loss of companionship
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Loss of enjoyment of life
Non-economic damages are more difficult to quantify, often based on:
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The severity and duration of the injury
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Impact on your daily life
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Medical expert opinions
Step 2: Missouri’s Pure Comparative Negligence Rule
Missouri follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means:
Even if you are partially at fault, you can still recover damages—reduced by your percentage of fault.
Example:
Let’s say:
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Total damages = $30,000
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You are 10% at fault
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Your recoverable settlement = $30,000 – 10% ($3,000) = $27,000
This system is more favorable than some states, which bar recovery if you’re even slightly at fault.
Step 3: Estimating a Settlement – A Sample Breakdown
Here’s a simplified hypothetical to illustrate how damages may be tallied:
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | $10,000 |
| Lost Wages | $5,000 |
| Pain & Suffering | $15,000 |
| Total Damages | $30,000 |
If you are found 20% at fault, your final settlement would be:
$30,000 – 20% ($6,000) = $24,000
This calculation gives you a ballpark estimate, but many factors—such as long-term injuries or ongoing care—can increase the value of your claim.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Attorney
Calculating damages is only the beginning. A skilled Missouri personal injury attorney can:
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Accurately evaluate the true value of your claim
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Negotiate with insurance companies to prevent lowball offers
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Guide you through the legal process and deadlines
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Present evidence of non-economic damages effectively
Insurance companies are not on your side—but your attorney is.
Final Thoughts
While no formula can guarantee a specific settlement amount, understanding how Missouri law calculates personal injury claims gives you power and perspective.
If you’ve been injured, don’t guess at what your case is worth. Let Chad Mann Law help you fight for every dollar you deserve.
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#PersonalInjuryMissouri #SettlementCalculation #EconomicDamages #NonEconomicDamages #ComparativeNegligence #ChadMannLaw #InjuryAttorneyMissouri #LegalAdvice
