If you have an auto accident claim, you may be able to handle it by yourself without the assistance of an attorney. Knowing when it is safe to represent yourself, though, requires a realistic and thorough analysis of your case. Below is an explanation of a few instances in which it may be permissible to represent yourself in an auto accident insurance claim.
There Is No Personal Injury Involved
If your car accident involved only property damage and no personal injury, you can most likely represent yourself successfully in your claim. Personal injury lawsuits are complicated because they require extensive investigation into the type, permanence and treatments for injuries, and because they largely depend on the individual’s health and age. Purely property damage claims, though, are swiftly resolved because the amount of repairs is easily estimable and payable.
There Is No Other Party Involved
If you are the only party involved in the accident, there is most likely no need for you to hire legal representation. Examples of this type of accident are where you run into a stationary object or otherwise damage your car due to no fault other than you own. In this instance, blame rests solely on your shoulders, making it unnecessary to dispute the cause of your damage and injuries. However, note that if you were personally injured in your single-driver accident and the insurance company is refusing to pay for your treatment you may need legal representation.
You Were Driving Your Employer’s Automobile
If the accident occurred while you were at work or on a work-related errand, you most likely can represent yourself in your claim. This is because your employer’s insurance company will have attorneys working on the technical aspects of the claim, limiting your involvement to getting paid for your injuries. In reality, in this type of accident you have very little involvement, making it likely that you will not have to fight much for compensation.
The Other Party Is Not Contesting Anything
If the other party or parties involved in the accident are not contesting a single aspect of the accident and are accepting full blame, chances are that you will receive the full amount you request in your claim, provided it is reasonable. Situations in which the other party is not contesting his fault make claims processing smoother and faster.
Getting Legal Advice
If you are considering handling your claim on your own, but are unsure whether doing so is a wise choice, interview one or two attorneys to obtain their impressions and advice on your claim. If an attorney views your case as relatively simple, you might want to consider handling it by yourself to save on attorney's fees.
