Case value depends on multiple factors including injury severity, medical expenses, lost wages, permanent impairment, and impact on quality of life. Economic damages include all medical bills, future treatment costs, lost income, and diminished earning capacity calculated through expert testimony. Non-economic damages compensate for pain, suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life, often calculated as multiples of economic damages. Insurance policy limits create practical ceilings on recovery regardless of actual damages in many cases. Factors increasing value include permanent injuries, scarring, lengthy recovery periods, and clear liability with egregious defendant conduct. Comparative negligence reduces recovery proportionally if you share fault for the accident. Your attorney should provide realistic value ranges based on similar case outcomes rather than promising specific amounts before thorough investigation.