When should you enlist the services of a personal injury attorney? Many plaintiffs decide to handle straightforward injury claims themselves. However, severe cases may require the services of an expert. 

The term “personal injury” is a broad one and covers a wide range of incidents. It covers vehicle accidents, falls, assaults, animal attacks, and more. How much you will get as compensation depends a lot on the severity or otherwise of your injuries. 

The severity of your injuries also determines whether you should seek compensation yourself or get a lawyer. You may wish to handle a simple injury claim through an insurer or a Small Claims Court. 

Handling a Case by Yourself

It’s important to know exactly what a case entails, before deciding to go it alone. Some plaintiffs start a case themselves, then complicate it by hiring a lawyer when they cannot handle it anymore. It’s best to consult an attorney if you are unsure about your ability to represent yourself. 

Some cases you may handle on your own include: 

Car Crash with Little or No Injuries

Vehicle accidents are common causes of personal injury claims. Rear-end accidents happen all the time, and can lead to injuries and vehicle damage. You may need to get medical treatment for your injuries. An insurance company will often settle your medical bills, and costs of fixing up your vehicle. In cases like these, there is usually no need to contact an attorney. 

You are Already Being Paid the Maximum Possible Amount

Insurance companies have compensation payout limits. Thus, they cannot pay you more than what the defendant’s insurance cover allows. So, if the defendant has an insurance maximum amount of $50000, that’s all you are going to get even if a court rules a larger verdict. 

You Reside in a No-Fault Insurance State

No-fault states prevent you from filing a suit for your injuries unless it reaches a serious injury threshold – determined by injury severity or medical expenses related to the injury. You may not need to hire an attorney unless you think that your injuries are severe enough to exclude you from the no-fault rule. 

You Are Sure of Your Ability to Negotiate with an Insurance Adjuster 

If you believe you can sit at the negotiating table with an insurance agent and get a fair settlement, then you may not have to get a lawyer. If your case is to be settled in a Small Claims Court, you may prosecute the case yourself, especially if you have a handle on the legal technicalities of your case. 

You Can Research Issues of Law Compensation

Researching the law can be tedious and time-consuming. However, if you have the will and energy to go through the process, then you may not need to hire a lawyer. 

Why Should I Hire an Attorney?

The defendant’s insurers will have lawyers who want to ensure you get as little money as possible. Cases where it would be wise to have a professional on your side include: 

Your Injuries Are More Serious Than You Thought

You may not want to enlist an attorney for minor injuries like scrapes and bruises, especially if an insurance company offers to take up your medical expenses or offer a small compensation. Minor injuries can progress to something more serious, and collecting an initial settlement will prevent you from future claims. A lawyer will restrain you from collecting any settlement, till you’ve assessed the full scope of your injury. 

You May Be Entitled to Emotional Damage Compensation

Any settlement you negotiate yourself is unlikely to account for emotional suffering. A lawyer is in a better position to demand compensation related to non-physical injuries. 

The Insurance Company Takes You More Seriously

Having a lawyer lets the defendant and their insurer know you are serious about getting compensated. The presence of a lawyer is more likely to make the company want to settle quickly. Studies also show that plaintiffs represented by counsel get larger settlements than those who represent themselves. 

Have you been involved in an accident? Do you need to hire an attorney? Valiant Advocates instantly connect you to experienced attorneys in your area. Our network covers multiple US states, and will instantly connect you to an attorney ready to take up your case. Call our toll-free helpline: (800) 900-6668.