When an accident strikes, it doesn’t just leave behind physical injuries – it catapults you into a maze. This is because there are legal procedures to follow, insurance paperwork, and the overwhelming weight of medical bills and recovery.
For some, the consideration of going through this whole process without a personal injury attorney can sound easy, because of possible savings in legal fees. But the implications of that decision are widely varied, affecting everything from your peace of mind to the size of your compensation.
In the immediate aftermath of an accident, healing and recovery is what most people focus on. It is during this time that they start to consider whether or not to hire a personal injury attorney. Whether or not you are at this point, keep reading to find out what may happen if you don’t hire an attorney after an accident.
Grasping Legal Nuances Alone
Try to imagine taking on a personal injury case without personal injury attorneys. This means you will have to quickly get acclimated with the personal injury law and its nuances. This would also mean that you would have to, very quickly, get a good grip or be well-versed in the legalese of insurance companies, as well as with the court and its procedural requirements of filing for a claim on your own.
While this information could be available online, think about this: if you miss just one key date, fail to gather evidence properly, or don’t submit the right kind of evidence – chances are high that your claim to compensation will be significantly lower.
Negotiating Without a Safety Net
While negotiating with a third party may be problematic, this is even more so when dealing with insurance companies. Third party insurance companies will do all that they can to undermine your claims. Insurers are likewise represented by very slick personnel who have the tactics to protect their bottom line.
They may make you sign no-sue documents, offer you way less than you deserve, or simply turn you down. In any of these instances, personal injury attorneys will not just level the playing field, but they protect your rights through the negotiation process. You will have a much higher chance of a settlement that is reflective of the injuries and losses experienced by you.
Financial Risks and Realities
While avoiding attorney fees may seem like a wise economic choice, in fact, it usually does result in less compensation than might be otherwise possible for the aggrieved party. Attorneys know how to correctly access the full scope of your claim.
Unlike most people, they do not only consider immediate out-of-pocket costs, but also lost salaries, long term rehabilitation and care, and the possible emotional toll the accident took. Without that knowledge, you might agree to a settlement that will cover much less than even meets half your future needs, and this can cost you financially.
Conclusion: The Value of Informed Decisions
Ultimately, that choice to hire (or not to hire) personal injury attorneys is quite personal and one which must be done with the full knowledge of consequences. If you will choose to move on on your own, then ensure the most intensive research, the most detailed documentation, and effective negotiation that will champion your best interest. But always consider expertise, especially during recovery, that personal injury attorneys will bring to the table before making a final decision.
