Legal Question in Personal Injury in Virginia

Do I have to have a lawyer represent me if I have been in a car accident and should be getting a settlement from the other party....I was hit sitting still on an interstate because of traffic ahead and was hit from behind by a person going 60mph....had a few back injections to date.

thanks


Asked on 10/24/11, 7:32 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Gary Mims Sickels, Frei & Mims

No. However, if you have a permanent injury, or think you might, consulting with a lawyer is not a requirement, but is something you should do. Lawyers typically charge 1/3 fee contingent upon what you recover. If the other insurer is willing to pay what you believe is reasonable for your injury and property damage, there is no reason you need a lawyer. Since you don't have a lawyer, the insurance company likely will not offer the full value of the case, but when you consider the cost of going forward with an attorney taking less may be best. Fore example, if your case is worth $30,000.00 and the insurer offers $22,000.00 you and the insurer are better off with a settlement for the $22,000.

Keep in mind: if you had med pay insurance on your car, you need to file a claim with them for your medical bills--

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Answered on 10/24/11, 7:42 am


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