Can you settle your own bodily injury claim?
Do you need an attorney to settle your injury claim? The answer is not necessarily. There are complex claims that require you to have legal counsel. It is critical that you have consult with an attorney if have or think you have a permanent injury (or if there is a death).
Other than permanent injuries, you could have a soft tissue injury. This type of injury is generally less severe, and it is easier to negotiate. Remember that when you are settling with an insurance company, they are literally buying a lawsuit of your hands. Anything that could add value to a jury trial should add value your injury claim.
So, when you are negotiating the insurance adjuster will be trying to show your weak points (the doctor said you were completely recovered here). They will not tell you where the doctor says that you had more severe injury or that you were in a lot of pain. That will be your job. So read all your medical records and pick out exactly what the doctor says (or writes). Use that as a negotiation tool.
Click here for more tips about settling your own injury claim.
