Suffering from a serious injury? Trying to make ends meet? Distressed due to someone else’s carelessness?
We understand you may be feeling like you are falling behind on all your responsibilities. And any financial aid can boost the quality of your life.
Therefore, negotiating for your damages is an effective way to settle the dispute agreeably and timely. But the answer to “should you negotiate a personal injury settlement without a lawyer” depends on your specific circumstances.
You can approach negotiations all by yourself. But should you really do that? Let’s find out.
The Basics – What Is a Personal Injury?
Injuries are part of our daily lives. However, in the legal context, personal injury is any damage resulting due to the negligence of a third party affecting your physical and psychological state. In simple words, the other person fails to meet their duty of care, which heavily costs the victim, allowing them to pursue legal action. Fundamentally, the personal injury law applies to the following areas:
- Bicycle Accidents
- Car Accidents
- Criminal Injuries
- Dog Bites
- Medical Negligence
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Occupational Hazards
- Pedestrian Injuries
- Slip, Trip, and Fall Accidents
- Truck Accidents
- Using Faulty/ Defective Products
- Workplace Accidents and Injuries
In addition, your unique case specifics and the severity of the situation will determine the way forward and help you obtain a reasonable negotiation. So, if you or a loved one sustain an injury or occupational illness, the first course of action is to collect evidence and tactfully negotiate for the financial compensation you deserve.
Negotiating an Injury Settlement Without An Attorney
Settlement negotiation is an ongoing and tedious process. Even if you’ve filed a lawsuit, you can reach an out-of-court settlement unexpectedly or vice-versa. But if you’re wondering how to negotiate for your suffering like a pro, here are some helpful tips.
- Document your economic (expenditures) and non-economic (pain and suffering) losses
- Gather all evidence, including witnesses, police reports, any photos etc., supporting your claim
- Estimate your damages, including both current inconvenience and future hardships
- Send a Demand Letter to the insurer explaining why the insured is liable for paying your damages
- The Reservation of Rights letter received in return informs that the insurer is responsible only for a claim covered as per the policy terms
- Emphasize your strong points, even long- or short-term emotional distress causing a negative impact
- Know the weaknesses of your case so you can present an adequate counter
- Do not accept the first offer, and request justification for low-ball offers
- Go through the authorization papers carefully and sign to give access to related records only
- When you reach an agreement, put it in writing, confirming the necessary terms
You’ll be faced with a lot of back-and-forths during negotiations. The insurance company will attempt to lower and even challenge your claim. So, if you decide to present your injury case yourself, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the complex legal system and the sneaky tactics insurance adjusters utilize to deny or devalue a claim.
When Should You Consider Hiring A Legal Counsel?
If you feel overwhelmed during negotiations, and it makes no sense to go at it alone, hire an Orange County personal injury attorney immediately. You’d significantly benefit from professional legal representation when:
- The other party’s negligence causes long-term and ongoing care
- Your injuries require surgical intervention
- Rehabilitation can be costly and lengthy
- You lost wages and future earning capacity
- You may have a diminished life quality
So, when you’re not in a position to communicate your claim, your injuries are serious, the aftermath may be complex, and you’ll be burdened with enormous out-of-pocket expenses, it’ll be in your best interest to speak with a qualified personal injury attorney to navigate the complex rules and restrictions keeping you from getting a fair settlement.
Benefits of Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney
Handling an injury claim can be complicated. You will only be left hanging with hefty medical bills and emotional trauma if proper action isn’t taken. A professional attorney can help you recover maximum financial compensation for your losses.
Legal Guidance
Even though it may seem counterintuitive to partner with a lawyer, they can offer unbiased and tailored guidance. Professionals can help you devise an objective plan of action to move forward diligently.
Investigative Assistance
To lead a quality life, you must establish fault and liability. That’s exactly what an attorney can do and put forward a strong defense. Lawyers have the skills and resources to investigate the case in depth and build the most persuasive case possible.
Negotiation Skills
Injury attorneys have solid negotiation skills. Their experience allows them to develop winning dispute-resolution strategies. You can trust their expertise and focus on fully recovering from the mishap while they negotiate with full power to protect your rights.
Contact An Orange County Personal Injury Lawyer Today!
Having a qualified attorney by your side helps you obtain justified compensation for your losses. At The Soliman Firm, our Orange County personal injury lawyers understand how difficult the situation can be for the victims and their families. So, when facing serious consequences, exercise your legal right and know there’s assistance available.
Call The Soliman Firm at (714) 491-4111 for a free, no-obligation, and confidential consultation. Our skilled attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of preparing for a personal injury claim to protect your future.