When you've been in an accident — whether it's an auto accident, trucking accident, motorcycle accident, wrongful death, or other personal injury case — a lot of things go through your mind. The first thing you should always do is make sure you're ok medically. After that, your focus should shift towards whether or not you need an attorney to defend your rights to compensation. Below, out Frederick trial lawyer explains when (and when not) to hire an attorney.
When is it OK to Try and Handle the Case on Your Own?
There are really only two situations where you might consider handling the matter without an attorney. The first is where it’s clear that you have some damages but not a lot and the defendant’s insurance company is not contesting that it’s purely the defendant’s fault. In those situations, you probably will settle for less than a competent attorney could receive for you but the offset in savings by not paying attorney fees may make it worth your while. Just remember that, almost always, settlements are final and there is no going back.
The second situation can arise where again the defendant’s insurance company is not contesting that is purely the defendant’s fault and you have really large damages which exceed what the defendant has for insurance coverage and also exceed what other coverage is available. We often get people who call into the office and say they are thinking about doing this. We don’t recommend this, but if you’re going to do it, be careful. Keep in mind that you have to figure out what all of the defendant’s applicable insurance was, whether there are other possible parties that may constitute a source of recovery, and whether your own insurance or insurance provided by a third-party which covers you also might apply. Also, you have to be aware of all the liens that can apply by virtue of healthcare services, other insurance payments, and government benefits, plus subrogation claims.
