Can ChatGPT win my case?

I recently used ChatGPT to help me figure out who was responsible for an accident I was involved in. Is there anything from a legal perspective stopping me from using it to run the case without a solicitor? I feel that it could save me money, and every penny counts now that I’m out of work.

Oliver, by email

Answer

Using ChatGPT or another AI language model to manage a personal injury claim on your own may seem like a cost-effective solution on the face of it; however, this approach would carry significant legal and practical risks, and I strongly advise against it.

While AI can be a helpful support tool, it is not a substitute for professional legal expertise. You may not know whether you’re asking the right questions, and, more importantly, you won’t be able to tell when the answers given are wrong – which they often are. There have been multiple instances where claimants relied on AI-generated case law that was either misinterpreted or completely made-up.

Personal injury claims are governed by strict legal procedures, including pre-action protocols, limitation periods, and disclosure obligations. Navigating these rules incorrectly can seriously jeopardise your case and if something goes wrong while relying on AI, you will have no legal recourse.

My recommendation would be to instruct a specialist motorcycle accident solicitor to ensure that your claim is handled correctly, strategically, and with your best interests in mind. Make sure to ask about an interim payment which could ease financial pressure while your case progresses.