The problem with all of these suggestions to get an attorney is that it is easier said than done.

If you have few or no medical bills and no permanent injury, almost no attorney would bother to take your case. If any attorney wants any money up front, walk away. Personal injury attorneys only get paid when they win your case and should never leave you with potential expenses.

In my case, I had $2700 in medical bills that were nearly all covered by medical insurance ($300 OOP). I had only $800 in damages to bike and clothing. I was turned down by several law firms because my case was so trivial. In the end, the firm that did take my case got $5,000 for their work, but that came from the car insurance company. If a car insurance company thinks that you are getting an attorney their offer will go up. Tell them that their offer is too low and then do nothing for a couple of weeks to make them sweat. If they call, tell them you're still looking for an attorney, but haven't decided on one. They're bluffing with the $400 offer, so bluff back.