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If you are tempted to represent yourself in a personal injury claim, don’t. Although the law allows you to represent yourself in personal injury claims, hiring a pro is advisable because a personal injury lawyer does a lot more than represent you in court.
Explaining your rights
A good lawyer will explain if your case has merit. If it does, he will explain your rights on legal matters such as the statute of limitation, and how much you should seek as compensation. If you get a settlement, a good lawyer, based on experience, will advise you if you should take it or proceed to court.
Representation in meetings and in court
Your lawyer will attend meetings with the other driver’s insurer. If the case ends up in court, the lawyer will represent you by filing motions and other paperwork, jury selection, arguing motions, making submission, examining and cross-examining witnesses.
Establishing communication with the insurer
Your attorney will communicate with the insurance adjuster of the other driver. This starts with the filing of the claim and giving the insurance adjuster all the supporting evidence. It is important that this communication be cordial because it is the insurance adjuster who will decide if you will be paid, and how much you should be paid.
Gathering physical evidence
Your attorney will also gather the relevant evidence to support the claim. He/she will make sure the accident reports are in order and will talk to other road users who might be witnesses in the case. A good lawyer will also conduct thorough investigations and may enlist the services of professional investigators and accident reconstruction experts to establish fault beyond reasonable doubt.
Gathering medical evidence
You will be compensated based on the extent of your injuries, disability, or physical limitation. Your attorney will gather all the relevant medical evidence, including medical bills, doctor reports, treatment records, as evidence of damages, keeping in mind it is not a health care provider’s first priority to send records to lawyers and patients. A good lawyer will have a business relationship with credible medical professionals who will write good reports.
Negotiation with lien holders
If you are dealing with a health, disability, or workers’ compensation insurer, the insurer will place a lien on your claim. A good lawyer will negotiate with the lien holder to reduce the lien.
Representation in arbitration
The case may also end up in arbitration (where your own insurance company is also involved). A good lawyer will be in good standing with arbitrators and will ensure you get the most out of the mediation.
If you have been in a car accident, you need time to recover from your physical and psychological injuries. Self-representation simply adds to the stress and emotions are likely to cloud your judgment. With representation from the Ken M. Frankel Law Office, Ken M. Frankel will represent you himself, allowing you to benefit from over 30 years of experience in personal injury and medical malpractice law. You can reach us on 954 – 784 – 0800 or kenfrankelinjurylaw@gmail.com.