The value of your claim depends on what type of injuries you sustain. In New York there are 2 types of damages: economic and non-economic. The economic damages include lost earnings, and out of pocket expenses such as medical costs. The non-economic damages are the past and future pain and suffering that result from the injuries you suffered. The value of the economic damages can be quantified, and an actual dollar figure can be determined. On the other hand, the value of your pain and suffering will vary depending on the seriousness of the injury, the type of medical care you need, and how long the suffering lasts.