Should I Settle My Personal Injury Case on My Own?
If you’ve been in an accident and suffered a personal injury, you may wonder whether you should settle your case on your own or hire an attorney.
While you have the option to handle your case yourself, there are several advantages to hiring a Colorado Springs personal injury lawyer to represent you. Let’s explore these advantages in more detail and help you understand why having legal representation is so important in a personal injury case.
Recovery Amounts
One of the main reasons you should consider hiring an attorney to handle your personal injury case is the recovery amount. The recovery amount is the amount of compensation you can receive from the insurance company for your damages as awarded by a jury or in a settlement.
Insurance companies know that they will have to pay you more if you have legal representation. As a result, they will often try to settle your case early and without an attorney.
By hiring a lawyer, you can ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries.
Emotional and Physical Burden
Dealing with a personal injury can be a very emotional and difficult process. You’re not only dealing with physical pain and suffering damages, but you also have to deal with the insurance company.
Insurance companies are not looking out for your best interests. Their job is to pay you as little as possible, and they will use various tactics to achieve this goal. This can add to the emotional burden of getting through your case alone.
Having an attorney on your side can alleviate some of this burden. Your attorney can deal with the insurance company on your behalf and provide you with emotional support during this challenging time.
Evaluation of Your Case
An experienced personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and determine the best action. They can help you understand your legal rights and the options available. This includes determining and improving the value of your case, negotiating with the insurance company, and representing you in court if necessary.
By having an attorney on your side, you can rest assured that your case is being handled properly and that you are receiving the compensation you deserve.
Access to Resources
An attorney can also give you access to a wide range of resources. This includes medical professionals, therapists, and other experts who can help you recover from your injuries.
Your attorney can help you navigate the legal system and ensure your case is handled properly. They can advise you on dealing with the insurance company and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Common Mistakes When Settling a Personal Injury Case on Your Own
If you decide to settle your personal injury case on your own, it’s important to be aware of common mistakes that can often be avoided with the help of a personal injury attorney. These mistakes can result in less compensation than you deserve or even jeopardize your case altogether.
Accepting a Settlement Offer Too Early
Insurance companies often make settlement offers soon after an accident, hoping to settle quickly and for less money. However, these early offers may not fully account for the extent of your injuries or future medical expenses. It’s important to clearly understand the full extent of your injuries before accepting any settlement offer.
Failing to Document Evidence Properly
Proper documentation of evidence can make or break your case. Document all injuries and damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Keep all medical records and receipts safe, and make copies of everything for your records.
Not Considering Long-Term Costs
A personal injury can have long-term effects that may not be immediately apparent. It’s important to consider all future medical expenses and any long-term pain and suffering that may result from your injuries. A personal injury attorney can review your case and determine whether future medical care is likely and how medical treatment affects your settlement.
Not Seeking Medical Treatment Immediately
Delaying medical treatment after an accident can hurt your case. The longer you wait to seek treatment, the harder it will be to link your injuries to the accident. Seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident, even if you don’t think you’ve been seriously injured.
Failing to Consult with an Attorney
Even if you decide to settle your case independently, consulting with a personal injury attorney is always a good idea. An attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate your case, and provide advice on how to negotiate with the insurance company.
The Bottom Line
If you’ve suffered a personal injury, it is important to consider hiring an attorney to handle your case. Doing so can ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible and that your legal rights are protected. An attorney can also provide support and access to valuable resources. While you have the option to settle your case on your own, having an attorney on your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Contact us today at Springs Law Group for a consultation. We’ll review your case and let you know what you can expect, whether settling on your own or hiring us to represent you.