These online tools purport to estimate a monetary value for the non-economic damages in personal injury cases. The calculations typically rely on the multiplier method, which involves multiplying the economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages) by a factor, often between 1.5 and 5, to account for the intangible aspects of harm. For instance, if an individual incurs $10,000 in medical bills and $5,000 in lost wages, a tool might suggest multiplying the total ($15,000) by a factor of 3, resulting in a purported pain and suffering valuation of $45,000.
The appeal of these automated systems lies in their perceived simplicity and speed. They offer individuals a seemingly objective starting point for negotiations with insurance companies or for understanding the potential value of their claim. Historically, assessing non-economic damages has been a subjective process, reliant on legal precedent, jury verdicts, and the specific facts of each case. The emergence of these digital aids reflects a desire for a more quantifiable and readily accessible method of valuation. However, it’s important to acknowledge that these tools are not a substitute for expert legal advice.
