The Dos and Don’ts of Settling Your Case Pro Se (without Legal Representation)
Personal injury claims – by their very nature – are complicated, and the stakes are always high. While you are well-advised to work closely with an experienced Forsyth County personal injury attorney if you are left injured by someone else’s negligence, you are not required to do so. If you think that your case is simple and you set out to go it alone, there are some basic dos and don’ts that can help.
Do Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t think the accident in question left you seriously injured, you owe it to your own health and to your pro se case to seek immediate medical attention. Some very serious injuries are slow to present with symptoms, and the sooner your injuries are diagnosed and treatment is begun, the better your chances of making a full recovery. Further, you can’t seek compensation for your complete damages until you know what your damages are and what their future physical and financial implications are likely to be.
Don’t Ignore Your Doctor’s Advice
Carefully following your doctor’s instructions post-accident not only improves your prognosis but also demonstrates to the insurance company that your damages are as serious as you say they are. Now is not the time to go rogue and make your own medical decisions against your doctor’s recommendations.
Do Your Research
Personal injury cases are complicated. Even a relatively minor issue can quickly escalate into something far more serious, and this makes doing your research ahead of time critical. The most important elements include:
- Know the Rules in Your Jurisdiction – There are rules and regulations that you must adhere to in the course of a personal injury case, and you are well-advised to know them.
- Keep the Statute of Limitations in Mind – In Georgia, you must file your personal injury claim within two years of the precipitating accident. Don’t let time get away from you.
- Know Which Documents to File and When – Over the course of your personal injury case, you will be filing documents. Understanding which documents need to be filed (and according to what schedule) will help you stay on track.
- Compose a Strong, Compelling Argument – Research the laws that guide your personal injury case and allow them to guide you in the creation of a strong, compelling argument that clearly delineates the facts and strengths that make up your case.
Don’t Think You Can’t Afford an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Many people go the pro se route because they don’t think they can afford an experienced personal injury attorney, but this simply isn’t the case. Most reputable personal injury lawyers work on contingency, which means they don’t get paid (a predetermined percentage of your compensation) unless you settle with the insurance company or are awarded compensation by the court.
Talk to an Experienced Georgia Personal Injury Attorney Today
Before you take matters into your own hands, discuss your case for free with one of the skilled Cumming personal injury attorneys at Banks, Stubbs & McFarland. We’re here to help, so please don’t hesitate to contact us online or call us at 770-887-1209 for more information today.