Settling Personal Injury Claims Without a Lawyer: Tips and Risks

Deciding whether to hire an attorney for a personal injury claim can be a tough decision. Virginia law allows you to collect payment for such losses through a personal injury lawsuit. Settling your own personal injury claim without a lawyer involves knowledge of the claims process. In many cases, you can recover compensation through a settlement with the at-fault party’s insurance company. If your case goes to court, a judge or jury will decide it. Majority of personal injury claims do not require filing a lawsuit.

What Should I Expect?

If the injuries that you suffered because of the accident were minimal, then you should be able to resolve directly with the insurance adjuster. For example, after your accident you had a few doctor’s visits, time off work and the injuries went away. This means you can handle the claim on your own. Here are a few thing you should submit to the insurance adjuster to help your case:

• Police Report
• Witness statements
• Medical Expenses
• Lost wages
• Photographs

The insurance adjuster will probably negotiate an amount for something lower then what you have demanded. Ultimately, if you work with the insurance adjuster you will have to come to an agreement between you and the insurance company. Once you accept a settlement offer and sign a release, your case is over. However, if your injuries are much more serious that have resulted in significant medical treatment, or if you anticipate significant medical treatment for your injuries. You should have a personal injury attorney to handle your case.

Should I Contact a Lawyer?

Personal injury lawyers have a lot of experience dealing with insurance companies and business owners and will work hard to protect your interests. If you speak to an attorney before giving any statements to other parties, you protect yourself from being taken advantage of.