Lenox Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Victims of dog bites can rely on dog bite injury lawyers for essential support. These attorneys specialize in the complex legalities of animal incidents, ensuring proper management of liability and compensation to achieve justice.

What Should You Not Do When Talking With an Insurance Adjuster in a Dog Bite or Attack Case?

Dealing with an insurance adjuster after a dog bite or attack can be daunting. This article provides essential advice on how to handle such interactions to protect your rights and interests.

Tell the Truth and Keep Records

First and foremost, always tell the truth. Any false statement, no matter how small, can ruin your credibility. Honesty ensures you won't have to worry about contradicting yourself later.

Second, document everything related to your case. Keep track of all communications, damages, and interactions with insurance representatives. Maintain a diary or journal detailing whom you spoke with and when. This documentation can support your claims and lead to a higher settlement evaluation.

Medical Records and Doctor Visits

If you sustained injuries, there are additional considerations:

- Keep records of missed work and obtain doctors' excuses.
- Track time missed from work for medical appointments.
- Review any medical bills or explanation of benefits from your health insurance.

Medical records are critical as they detail your injuries, complaints, and treatments. The insurance company will base their settlement offer on this information. If you fail to report all your symptoms, they might argue that your injuries are unrelated to the incident.

Regular medical visits are important, especially if your symptoms persist. Failing to see a doctor regularly can be seen as evidence of full recovery by the insurance company and potentially by a judge or jury.

Dealing With the Insurance Adjuster

Insurance adjusters are trained professionals who handle claims daily. Be cautious with what you say as it could be used against you later. Consider hiring a personal injury lawyer experienced in handling dog bite and attack injuries to level the playing field.

Adjusters often offer quick settlements in hopes you'll accept a lower amount. If you accept and sign release forms, it is difficult to renegotiate later. While property damage claims can often be managed independently, personal injury claims may require legal expertise.

Long-term Effects and Treatment for Dog Bites in Iowa

Dog attacks can cause lasting physical and mental effects. Understanding these potential long-term effects and seeking appropriate treatment is crucial.

Physical Disfigurement

Dog bites can result in permanent physical disfigurement, such as:
- Permanent scars
- Paralysis or partial paralysis
- Mobility issues
- Amputation

Plastic or reconstructive surgery may be necessary, but some conditions, like paralysis, might be irreversible, requiring victims to adapt to lifelong disabilities.

Mental and Emotional Trauma

Dog attacks can also lead to significant mental and emotional trauma, especially in children. Symptoms may include:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Reenacting traumatic incidents
- Fear, stress, and anger
- Loneliness and aggression
- Self-harm or substance abuse

Counseling and therapy are essential to address these psychological injuries.

Infections and Disease

Dog bites can transmit infections and diseases, such as rabies, sepsis, and more, which can be deadly if untreated. Prompt medical attention is critical to prevent these complications.

Treatment for Dog Bite Injuries

Treatment for deep dog bites often involves stitches or staples, depending on the injury's severity and location. Preventative aftercare, including keeping the wound clean and using prescribed medications, is crucial to avoid complications.

Steps to Take After a Dog Attack

If bitten by a dog, take these steps:
1. Seek medical attention immediately.
2. Report the attack to local authorities.
3. Collect information from the dog owner, including rabies vaccination status.
4. Contact a personal injury attorney in Iowa for legal advice and representation.

When to Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer

For the complete list of things you should do if bitten by a dog you can request our FREE book, "Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites- Secrets to Not Get Bitten by Your Case" which is available to you with no risk or obligation by clicking here or by calling 641-792-3595. 

Why offer a Free Dog Bite Book?  Since 1997, I have been representing injured Iowans, including many dog bite victims from central Iowa and throughout the state.  I have heard too many horror stories about people making costly mistakes, causing them to lose thousands of dollars.  Before you talk to the insurance company you should know your rights and perhaps more importantly your responsibilities.   

If you need immediate assistance, contact us online or call us at (641) 792-3595. If you are not local to us, we will come to you.