As you have probably noticed, the insurance company is doing everything it can to keep you from hiring a lawyer. They even tell you things like getting a lawyer will slow the process down or that you will get less money if you hire a lawyer.
There is a reason the insurance company tells you not to get a lawyer: it is because if you get an attorney, the insurance company will have to pay the full value of the claim, instead of a fraction of it or even nothing at all.
A single misstep in your accident or injury insurance claim can ruin your claim. The insurance company is going to ask you every question they can in an effort to say the accident was your fault or that you are not entitled to as much money. A lawyer will become a shield between you and the insurance company — instead of asking you questions directly, the insurance company will have to go through your attorney. A lawyer will be better able to navigate the treacherous waters of insurance claims.
Not only do you risk losing your claim by handling it yourself, but also many complex laws in Utah affect the amount of money you are entitled to receive after an accident. Navigating through these laws can be a difficult and complex process involving a substantial amount of legal research. According to a Consumer Panel Survey of Auto Accident Victims in 1999, injured victims received an average of 40% more money when hiring an attorney to represent them when compared to representing themselves. (“Paying for Auto Injuries: A Consumer Panel Survey of Auto Accident Victims,” Insurance Research Council, 1999, pg. 45-52)