• Leon Dog Bite Injury Attorneys
  • Phone: 641-792-3595
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Being attacked by a dog near Leon is a horrible experience that often leaves people feeling scared and confused. When you are injured as a result of an attack, you should avoid making one of several common but preventable mistakes, whether it is with the insurance adjuster, with your own doctors, or in choosing the right attorney. Making these mistakes can be the difference between recovering for your injuries or being mistreated by the insurance company.

What Not to Do When Talking With an Insurance Adjuster

Like most Iowans, you have likely had a claim against an insurance company for a property damage claim at some point. You may have received a call or visit from an insurance adjuster to discuss that claim. If you have to deal with an insurance company after a dog bite near Leon, this advice can help.

Tell the Truth and Keep Records

Anything you say can and will be used against you by the insurance company and their lawyers. No matter what, do not lie, because even a small lie can ruin your credibility. The best policy is to always tell the truth so you will never have to worry about what you said. You should also document your damages by keeping track of documents and other information that may not seem important at the time but later may become important, and you should keep a diary or journal of persons you speak with and when you spoke with them.

Medical Records and Doctor Visits

If you sustained injuries, keep track of the time you miss from work, including doctors' excuses for missed work and appointments, and review any medical bills or explanation of benefits forms you receive. The medical records made when you visit your doctor, physical therapist, or other medical providers are very important. They will include your description of how you were injured, your physical complaints, your injuries, the doctor's examination findings, and the treatment you received. The insurance company will base its offer on this critical information. If you first begin to complain about a medical problem weeks or even months after you were hurt, the insurance company will likely claim the problem was not from the accident and reduce their settlement offer. Likewise, if you are still having problems and they are not improving, return to your doctors, because failing to see a physician regularly is considered evidence that you have fully recovered.

Insurance adjusters spend hours training to use techniques and words to try to settle your case. Remember, the adjuster does this for a living, all day, every day. Insurance companies have lawyers and other professionals working for them, so you should consider having a professional on your side. Often after a dog bite injury, an adjuster will offer a few thousand dollars in the hope that you will take the offer and settle the claim quickly. If you accept the settlement and sign the release forms, it is very difficult, if not impossible, to change your mind later.

Ten Preventable Mistakes Leon Residents Make With Doctors

Beyond dealing with the insurance adjuster, how you handle your medical care after a dog bite near Leon matters just as much to your case.

  1. Failing to seek immediate medical attention. The victim is always responsible for proving they were injured. Do not ignore signs of pain, even small ones, since minor injuries can always get worse.
  2. Not disclosing the whole truth. Doctors use your past medical history to diagnose and treat you, so be honest. Concealing prior injury or sickness will hurt your legal case, since your prior medical records will eventually be available to the insurance company.
  3. Failing to get your pain accurately documented. Insurance companies and juries will not believe you are in pain just because you say so. They need to read about it in your medical records, so do not exaggerate, but make sure your specific pain and limitations are documented.
  4. Missing or showing up late for appointments. More than one or two missed appointments can make it look like you were not committed to getting better, and irritated doctors do not make good witnesses.
  5. Failing to inform your doctor your injury is affecting your ability to work. Insurance companies and juries need proof that your injury affects your ability to work, and this should be noted in your medical records.
  6. Not taking medications as prescribed. If a medication is causing side effects, tell your doctor rather than simply stopping it on your own, since this can be devastating to your claim.
  7. Stopping medical treatment too soon. Insurance companies and juries often believe that if you stop treatment, the injury must be healed. Seek treatment until you are healed or a doctor tells you there is nothing more that can be done.
  8. Talking with your doctor about lawsuits or legal advice. A doctor's job is to focus on your medical condition, and sharing legal issues with a medical provider is unnecessary and should be avoided, though you must be honest about how you were injured.
  9. Failing to follow treatment for depression or anxiety. Pain and disability can trigger psychological conditions that are just as real as broken bones, and insurance companies usually only compensate for these conditions when they are properly diagnosed and treated.
  10. Failing to keep a file. Keep track of every medical provider you see, along with doctor orders, treatment referrals, and work restrictions, so you can provide complete information to your attorney.

Avoiding these mistakes can make a real difference in the outcome of your Leon dog bite claim. Insurance companies and juries base their evaluation on what is documented, not just what you say happened.

Finding the Right Leon Dog Bite Attorney

A dog bite attorney plays a crucial role in your case. They guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. Your attorney will also help you understand the potential for compensation in your case, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Finding a qualified dog bite lawyer near Leon can be a daunting task. You want someone who is experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate. Start by doing some research online and look for lawyers who specialize in dog bite cases and check their reviews. Once you have a list of potential lawyers, schedule consultations with them to ask questions and get a feel for their approach. It is important to choose a lawyer you feel comfortable with and trust to handle your case.

Criteria for Choosing the Right Attorney

  • Experience with dog bite cases
  • Knowledge of local laws and regulations
  • Track record of success
  • Good communication skills
  • Compassionate and understanding
  • Willingness to take the case to trial if necessary
  • Positive reviews and testimonials from past clients

Preparing for Your Legal Consultation

Before meeting with a potential dog bite attorney, it is important to prepare. Gather all relevant information about the incident, including medical records, photos of the injury, and any witness statements, to help the attorney understand your case and provide accurate advice. During the consultation, do not hesitate to ask questions about their experience with dog bite cases, their approach to handling your case, and their fee structure. This is your opportunity to determine if they are the right fit for you.

The Importance of Documentation and Evidence

In a dog bite case, evidence is crucial. It can substantiate your claim and help establish the dog owner's liability, and can include medical records, photographs of the injury, and witness statements. A detailed account of the incident is also vital, including the location, the circumstances leading to the bite, and any interaction with the dog owner. The more comprehensive your documentation, the stronger your case will be.

 

When to Contact Leon Dog Bite Lawyers

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.

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