Can I Settle A Claim On My Own?

Whether you have been involved in a fender-bender, slipped and fell, or were bitten by a neighbor’s dog, most minor injury claims are fairly simple. You may not need an attorney to get a fair settlement, depending on the following questions:

Have You Completely Recovered From Your Minor Injury?

Most personal injury claims involve soft tissue injuries such as bruises, strains, or whiplash. If you have completely recovered after a few days of treatment and rest, then you are ready to consider settling your injury claim. You should be totally sure that you are completely recovered, even if the insurance adjuster is pressuring you to take settlement money. A simple stiff neck could actually be a herniated disc, so it is important that you and your doctor both agree that you have no further medical issues to consider.

Has The Insurance Company Fully Accepted Liability?

If the insurance company has accepted complete liability and you have completely recovered from your minor injuries, the only issue left to address is the amount of your settlement. You should make sure the insurance company has formally accepted liability in writing. Don’t accept a verbal agreement. It might be obvious to you that the driver who hit you is totally to blame, but he may be providing a different story when speaking to his insurance company.

Do You Really Have Enough Time And Energy To Handle Your Claim On Your Own?

Handling a personal injury claim takes a lot of time and work. Coping with your painful injury, your required doctor’s appointments, and your possible therapy appointments might be all you can feasibly handle at one time. In order to effectively handle your claim, you will have to acquire your medical records and relevant police reports, speak with any witnesses, and negotiate multiple times with a professional insurance adjuster. The process can be long, challenging, and unpleasant without an attorney.