There is a lot of work and skill that goes into settling motor vehicle accident cases. Still, some people injured in car accidents choose to handle their cases without lawyers. In most cases, it is recommended that victims injured in car accident cases hire an experienced attorney to handle the complexities that arise in car accident cases. However, there are some cases where it is not absolutely necessary to consult an attorney when you are in a motor vehicle accident.
In accidents involving minor injuries that are subjective and will probably heal within a few months, cases may appropriately be handled without a lawyer. If the injuries are not substantial in any way, the injured party will not have the emotional struggle dealing with the case. Further, the dollar value of the case will not be as high in situations involving minor injuries so there is not as much at stake as there is in cases involving more severe injuries.
If you do consider handling your own motor vehicle accident case, it is important to avoid the many mistakes that most lay people make when settling their cases.
Many victims give recorded statements to insurance companie
s. Insurance claim adjusters will contact you shortly after the accident in order to get statements from you. They will tell you that you have to give a recorded statement before you receive a settlement. This is incorrect in most cases. The insurance company is not on your side, as they are trying to pay you as little as possible. As a result, the company will try to obtain statements from you that are damaging to your case and show that you are at least partially liable for the accident.
Another mistake often made is demanding too much money. If you demand significantly more money than what the case is objectively worth, the insurance company will be alerted that you do not understand the facts and the law pertaining to the case. In many states, certain cases are capped at a certain amount. If you state an amount over and above this amount, it will become clear that you are unfamiliar with the law involved. If you demand significantly less money than what the case is objectively worth, you are undervaluing your case leaving money on the table, and giving the insurance company more than they deserve.
A lawyer will recommend and advise you to seek the appropriate medical attention immediately. Often people handling their own case do not seek medical attention. Thus, they do not understand the extent of their injuries and undervalue their case. It is important to note that injuries can grow or worsen over time. Without doctors’ notes indicating this, the insurance company’s settlement will not fairly compensate you for your injuries. One year down the line you may not be able to afford your medical bills given the reduced settlement amount.
Although there are some cases where it is not necessary to hire an attorney to pursue your motor vehicle accident case, it is always a good idea to have an experienced attorney who knows the law and can ensure you receive a just compensation.
