There are many who try to handle their own auto accident and the consequential minor injury claims successfully without the help of an attorney. If the injuries incurred are rather minor, it is more cost-effective to arrange your own settlement so that you could keep all the money to yourself rather than hiring a third-party personal injury lawyer.
For representing your own case, you need to figure out the damages that have been incurred in the accident case – which in other words mean what your case is worth. Whenever you factor in the other vital issues, like your own negligence, proof of liability, availability of insurance coverage, you can get ready to write the initial demand letter.
Self-representation – When should you consider?
After getting involved in an accident, it is definitely possible to represent yourself in a personal injury case, even if that means fighting against a big shot insurance company. This can become successful when you have got experience in handling your personal legal cases in the past and when you master the ability of standing up for yourself and presenting your case in a rather expert manner. But when is the right time to decide to represent yourself?
· What was the extent of your injury?
Did you slip and fall in a store and sustain few bruises? If answered yes, the store might not wish to get involved in a fight and they might offer a fast settlement to cover the medical bills and also be willing to pay in a little extra in order to help you out. However, if you’re involved in a rather serious accident for which you had to undergo extensive medical treatment or loss of income and noteworthy injuries, you might have to seek help of an experienced and professional attorney. With serious damages, the stakes are higher for all and this is when things get detrimental.
· Are you sure that the opponent party was guilty?
In case it is pretty obvious that the defendant or someone associated with him is to be blamed for the respective accident, you will need witnesses who will testify the same. However, in case of severe injuries, you will expect a bigger fight when it is not clear whether or not the defendant is responsible for the accident which was the cause behind your injuries. The defense might also be pointed back at you where they may try to prove that you slipped because you were not careful while driving or walking. So, when the proof of guilt is not certain, it is better to hire a personal injury lawyer.
Hence, if you’re someone who has met with a car accident or any other accident/incident due to which you have injured yourself, you should decide whether you wish to represent the case on your own or you would like to hire a lawyer. Depending on the complexity of the case, you should make a wise decision on whether or not to handle a personal injury lawsuit on your own.
