accident insurance workers comp injuries pain and suffering

What is the name of your state? washington
was involved in a no fault auto accident on 12/31. The liable parties insurance company (Farmers) accepted liability 2 days after the accident. I have rec'd the check for my car, it was totaled. They paid for 3 weeks rental vehicle and have stated they will be paying my medical bills and handling my bodily injury claim. This accident occured while I was driving as part of my job so I also have put in for workers comp and they have accepted my claim. I will be out of work for approx. 2 months according to the doctor. I have a fractured sternum and broken ribs. I was hospitalized overnight after the accident. Labor and Industries has sent me a third party election form. I need to decide if I will assign this case over to them for recovery from the insurance company or if I or my attorney will pursue third party action. I was hoping to work with the insurance company myself and not forfeit a third of any settlement amount to an attorney. I have done quite a bit of work on the medical bills, and all the claims and paperwork myself from the start and have documented everything and have kept receipts and history of all expenses. I have orderd some books about personal injury claims so I can familiarize myself with the standards. While waiting to decide I thought I would ask for feedback on whether it would serve me best to turn the action over to L&I and save myself the trouble. The bottom line for me is that I will not be receiving my actual loss of wages and I want total reimbursement. I have also been in a lot of pain, have had to cancel various activities in my life, have been unable to meet my debts and have to spend a lot of time following up with my doctor. I feel that a fair amount should be awarded to me for pain and suffering. I mentioned this to the L&I claims adjuster and she said pain and suffering doesn't exisit with them. Hmmm. Do I use L&I for representation and hope for the best settlement, do I give in and hire an attorney, or can I realistically do part of this myself? My medical bills will probably be close to the insureds liability limits although I was covered with UIM. I welcome suggestions from anyone who has been here. Thank you.