Can a Car Accident Claim Be Filed Without Help From a Lawyer?
A lot of people associate car accident claims with two lawyers going head to head in court over whose client bears responsibility for the accident. Part of the reason why a lot of people think of this image is because the vast majority of car accident claims are handled by car accident lawyers.
But this doesn’t mean you have to have a car accident lawyer help you bring a claim. You can do this on your own. So what are the advantages of doing things this way? What are the disadvantages? How often is this done? For answers to these questions and others that are related to them, read through the sections below.
Call 1-800-HURT-511 if you’re looking for exceptional car accident lawyers in Dumbo. We work with the best car accident lawyers, and they’re sought-after for their skills and track record of successful judgments.
Do You Need Special Qualifications to File a Car Accident Claim on Your Own?
You won’t need any special qualifications to represent yourself in a car accident claim. You don’t need to pass the state Bar or posses a law degree. And one might think that having these qualifications would make filing a claim independently easier, but there’s a reason why an old adage in the legal sphere goes something like: “A lawyer who represents himself has a fool for a client.” Keep this in mind as you consider the pros and cons of self-representation.
What Are the Advantages of Filing a Car Accident Claim by Yourself?
There are a couple advantages associated with filing a car accident claim on your own, and these advantages are briefly described below.
Saving Money
The most obvious advantage of filing a car accident claim without assistance from a car accident lawyer is that you’ll save money. Of course, you’ll still have to pay the fees associated with bringing the claim, but you won’t have to pay the 25 to 40% contingency fee that a car accident lawyer would charge.
You’re Responsible for Your Own Outcome
Some people like to be hands-on and totally in charge when dealing with something as important as a car accident claim. If you’re one of these people, you may find it easier to handle things on your own. Plus, you’ll be responsible for your own outcome, and such a situation will push some individuals to achieve success no matter what.
What Are the Downsides of Filing a Claim by Yourself?
There are many more downsides than upsides when it comes to filing a car accident claim on your own, and you need to be aware of these before you attempt to take on the process by yourself.
Also, keep in mind that approaching the process correctly from the start is the best way to pursue a car accident claim. If you think you can do things on your own, realize about 20% of the way in that you’re in over your head, and bring on a car accident lawyer later on, it’s less likely you’re going to achieve a favorable result. Still, it’s better to get a car accident lawyer’s help than give up in this instance. Below are some of the downsides associated with filing a claim on your own:
Negotiating With Your Insurance Provider Will Be Tough
It’s likely you won’t have the experience, skills, or knowledge necessary to negotiate adequately with your insurance provider, and this may lead you to accept a lowball offer.
You May Wait Too Long to File or Miss Important Deadlines
You may wait too long to file a claim, or you could miss another important deadline once the process is in motion. Plus, evidence depreciates over time, which is why it’s in your best interest to get a claim filed right away.
You Should Be Focusing On Recovering
You’ll be recovering from an injury while doing the strenuous work of preparing a claim, and it’s likely the stress and labor associated with getting the claim process moving will elongate your recovery and possibly prevent you from recovering fully altogether.
You May Need Courtroom Experience
It’s likely you won’t know how to represent yourself properly in court, and you may get flustered while presenting your case and then fall apart completely when an opposing lawyer repeatedly objects to what you say and these objections are sustained by the judge.
You May Underestimate Injuries and Your Total Damages Figure
While it’s true you can save a ton of money filing a car accident claim on your own, you may not properly or precisely account for all injuries related to the accident. If you don’t sue for these during your one and only opportunity, you’ll have to pay for related expenses out of pocket.
What Will a Car Accident Lawyer Do for Their Client?
A car accident lawyer will do many things for their client to ensure they have the best possible chance of reaching a favorable outcome. They will gather all necessary evidence and negotiate on their client’s behalf to reach a settlement out of court. If a settlement can’t be reached, they will bring the claim to trial and seek a resolution there. But one of the most important things a lawyer provides is support; they’ll take care of all the legal stuff while you focus on recovering from your injuries. The quicker you recover, the quicker you can settle and put the claim behind you.
How Often Do Car Accident Victims File a Claim Without a Lawyer?
It’s not often that individuals represent themselves when pursuing a car accident claim, and for all the reasons listed above. The odds are stacked against you when you do things on your own. Pursuing a claim on your own is one thing—anyone can do this! Winning a claim on your own is a completely different ball game, and instances of success are rare.
When Is It Best to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
We understand that hiring a car accident lawyer these days can be a stressful process. That’s why we’ve set out to make it easier. Call 1-800-HURT-511! We’ll connect you with the best car accident lawyers in Dumbo. They’ve recovered over $1 billion for accident victims they’ve represented, and they speak multiple languages while possessing the skills and experience needed to win a case like the one you’re looking to bring.
Call 1-800-HURT-511 now, as you only have so much time to file.
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