Do I need to hire a lawyer? How can I get compensated?
About two weeks ago, I was involved in a hit-and-run accident, and they’ve since found the other driver. Unfortunately, he doesn’t have insurance. I do have my own insurance, but I don’t have coverage for uninsured motorists, so they won’t cover the repairs for my car.
I’ve been told that unless I have serious injuries, lawyers might not take my case. Is it possible to file a lawsuit without a lawyer? I’m aware of civil claims, but I’m unsure how to proceed with that. Is there an online portal for this?
Is there any chance my insurance could cover the damages if I pay my deductible?
I apologize if my questions seem basic, and I’ve noticed some unkind attitudes in these discussions. Please be gentle with me; I’m just trying to understand my options and don’t deserve to be talked down to. Thank you!
I’m really sorry to hear about your situation; it sounds incredibly frustrating. To address your concerns:
Do You Need a Lawyer?: While it’s not always necessary to hire a lawyer, having one can be beneficial, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the legal process or if the case gets complicated. Many personal injury lawyers offer free consultations, so it might be worth discussing your case with a few to see if they can help, even if you don’t have serious injuries.
Compensation Options: Since the other driver was uninsured and you don’t have uninsured motorist coverage, pursuing compensation is challenging. However, you could consider small claims court to seek compensation for the damages to your vehicle, depending on the state laws and the amount involved.
Suing Without a Lawyer: You can file a claim in small claims court without a lawyer by following these general steps:
Serve the other driver with the court documents following your local rules.
Online Portals: Many jurisdictions have online portals for filing small claims. Check your local court’s website for more information on how to navigate that process.
Insurance Considerations: Regarding your insurance, it’s unlikely they’ll cover the damages if you don’t have uninsured motorist coverage. However, you could contact your insurer to see if they can offer any alternatives for repairing your car, even if it’s just suggestions for payment plans or assistance in dealing with the other driver.
Lastly, never feel bad about asking questions, especially when you’re navigating a confusing situation like this. It’s great that you’re seeking help and trying to educate yourself! Good luck, and I hope everything works out for you.