Should I Settle My Personal Injury Claim Without a Lawyer?

Deciding to settle your personal injury claim on your own may be a big decision. Some circumstances require an attorney for settlement and in some instances, you will want one if only to navigate through all the legalese and work that is required. Still, there are situations in which you may be able to handle your own personal injury claim adequately without the services of an attorney.

Personal Injury Claims That Don’t Require an Attorney

There are some vehicular accidents that can be handled without a lawyer. If there are no extensive or major injuries associated with the accident, you may be able to handle your personal injury claim on your own.

Accidents involving only soft tissue or an injury that is not permanent such as whiplash can be handled without a lawyer. The difference in the amount of settlement compensation may not be that much in minor accident cases. On the other hand, when an injury is permanent, it is always in your best interest to hire a qualified attorney.

Some accidents involving slip or trip and fall are also minor enough to be handled by the injured party without the services of a lawyer. Many businesses would rather settle than go through a long, involved legal process. It is to your advantage to know your rights and have some knowledge of what the expected compensation would be for a case like yours. Keep in mind that when such an accident involves a severe or permanently disabling injury, it is best to seek a qualified attorney.

You may also be able to make a personal injury claim without a lawyer when the case involves an accident with a defective product. The important thing here is to make sure you were using the product in the prescribed manner. If you were not using it as instructed and got hurt, you may not qualify for any compensation. The manufacturer could easily claim that you were not using the product properly, and therefore your injuries are your fault.

Advantages of Personal Injury Claim Without a Lawyer

As long as the injury is not permanent or severe, the biggest advantage in making a claim without a lawyer is that you may receive a little more money in the settlement. The amount the lawyer will negotiate for is usually from 10% to 25% more than what you would be able to get without one.

You would need to pay legal fees and other costs your lawyer may incur, such as administrative costs. The amount paid to your attorney could be as much as 40% of your settlement when everything is calculated. In the case of minor, non-permanent injuries, you may come out better without an attorney if you manage your personal injury claim properly.

Hiring a lawyer is advisable for complicated cases and situations where permanent or serious injuries are involved. Not only will your lawyer work to get you the best compensation possible, he or she will also make sure all the necessary paperwork is completed, so you can focus on getting better.

The Tison Law Group, located in Tampa, FL, has years of expertise helping people with personal injury cases. If you or a loved one needs a personal injury attorney, contact us. We also have experience in other areas: administrative law, criminal defense, injunctions, mental health, addiction and college student defense. Call to schedule a complimentary consultation.