After an accident, you might wonder whether you really need an attorney. The insurance company may seem cooperative. A settlement offer might arrive quickly. But statistics consistently show that injury victims who hire attorneys recover significantly more — even after legal fees — than those who go it alone.
You Should Hire an Attorney If...
Your injuries are serious or long-term. Broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord damage, and any injury requiring surgery or extended treatment significantly increase the value and complexity of your claim. An attorney can ensure future medical costs and lost earning capacity are properly calculated.
Liability is disputed. If the other party claims you were partially or fully at fault, you need an attorney to protect your interests. Under Colorado's comparative negligence law, even a 10% shift in fault allocation can cost you tens of thousands of dollars.
The insurance company is pressuring you to settle. A quick settlement offer is almost always a lowball. Insurers know that if they can close your case before you understand the full extent of your injuries, they'll pay far less than the claim is worth.
Multiple parties are involved. Multi-vehicle accidents, premises liability cases, and workplace injuries often involve multiple insurance companies with conflicting interests. An attorney can navigate these complexities and identify all sources of compensation.
When You Might Not Need an Attorney
For minor accidents with no injuries and only property damage, you can usually handle the insurance claim yourself. But if there's any doubt about the severity of your injuries, it costs nothing to get a professional opinion — most personal injury attorneys, including our firm, offer free consultations.
This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Contact an attorney to discuss your specific situation.