Written and reviewed by Bob McCarthy, licensed in Montana state and federal courts. Last reviewed October 31, 2026. General information, not legal advice.
Key points
- No one can value a case responsibly without reviewing the injuries and evidence.
- Fault and available insurance often matter as much as the injuries.
- Consistent medical care and good records strengthen a claim.
Why we do not use calculators
Online settlement calculators cannot account for the facts that drive real outcomes. We will not estimate the value of your case until we understand your injuries, your treatment and the evidence.
The main factors
| Factor | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Nature of the injuries | Fractures, surgery, brain injury and permanent impairment weigh heavily. |
| Medical care, past and future | The cost and course of treatment, and what care you will need later. |
| Lost income | Missed work and any loss of future earning ability. |
| Effect on your life | Pain, limits on activities, and changes to work, family and recreation. |
| Fault | Your share of fault, if any, reduces the recovery under Montana's comparative negligence law. |
| Available insurance | Liability limits, umbrella policies, and your own UIM coverage often set practical limits. |
| Evidence | Clear records, consistent treatment and good witnesses strengthen a claim. |
What you can do
- Follow your treatment plan and keep appointments.
- Keep a simple journal of pain, limits and missed activities.
- Save bills, receipts and pay stubs.
- Do not post about the crash or your injuries online.
Related pages
Montana sources