When you've been hurt because of someone else's negligence—whether in a car accident, slip and fall, or dog bite—one of the first questions that comes to mind is:
“How much is my personal injury case worth?”

At James F. Aspell, P.C., we've helped countless injury victims across Hartford and Central Connecticut pursue fair compensation after life-changing accidents. While every case is unique, this article will walk you through the key factors that determine the value of a personal injury claim in Connecticut.

Key Factors That Influence Case Value

1. Medical Expenses

The more serious your injuries, the higher your potential compensation. This includes:

• Emergency room visits

• Surgeries

• Ongoing physical therapy

• Prescription medications

• Future medical needs

Keep all bills, receipts, and treatment records. They form the foundation of your damages claim.

2. Lost Wages and Future Earnings

If your injury keeps you out of work—temporarily or permanently—you may be entitled to:

• Lost income during recovery

• Lost bonuses or benefits

• Diminished earning capacity for the future

This is especially relevant for self-employed individuals, tradespeople, or anyone with variable income.

3. Pain and Suffering

This is compensation for the non-economic toll of your injury:

• Physical pain

• Emotional distress

• Sleep disruption

• Loss of enjoyment of life

Connecticut doesn't cap damages for pain and suffering in most personal injury cases.

4. Permanent Disability or Disfigurement

Injuries that lead to long-term impairment, amputation, scarring, or disfigurement can dramatically increase your case's value—especially if they affect your ability to work or enjoy life.

5. Liability and Evidence

To succeed in a personal injury claim, you must prove that:

• Someone else was at fault (negligence)

• Their actions directly caused your injuries

Strong evidence—such as witness statements, photos, or accident reports—can drive up your case value by making liability more clear-cut.

How Connecticut Law Impacts Your Compensation

Comparative Fault

Connecticut uses modified comparative negligence, which means:

• You can recover damages as long as you're less than 51% at fault

• Your award is reduced by your percentage of fault

Example: If your case is worth $100,000 but you're found 20% at fault, you could recover $80,000.

No Damage Caps

Unlike some states, Connecticut generally does not impose caps on personal injury compensation (except in rare medical malpractice cases). That means juries and settlements can reflect the full scope of your damages.

What Types of Cases Typically Have High Value?

• Severe car and truck accidents

• Motorcycle crashes with traumatic injuries

• Construction accidents with permanent disability

• Dog bites causing facial scarring

• Slip and fall injuries in commercial locations

Each of these involves serious harm and often long-term consequences—both medically and financially.

Realistic Range of Settlements

Every case is different, but here's a general idea:

• Minor injury: $5,000 – $30,000

• Moderate injury: $30,000 – $100,000

• Severe or permanent injury: $100,000+

• Catastrophic injury or wrongful death: $500,000 to several million

Note: These are broad estimates. Speak with an attorney for a more accurate evaluation.

Want to Know What Your Case Is Worth?

At James F. Aspell, P.C., we've been helping Connecticut injury victims for over two decades. We'll review the facts of your case, assess your damages, and fight to recover every dollar you deserve.

📞 Call (860) 523-8783
📍 Or contact us online for a 100% free consultation
👉 Schedule your case review today