Mount Pleasant Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Dog bite injury attorneys become dependable allies for victims when a dog causes harm. They navigate the intricate legal landscape of animal-related cases, focusing on achieving justice and fair compensation for the injured.

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

Dealing with a dog bite or attack case involves intricate details and careful navigation, especially when communicating with an insurance adjuster. This guide offers crucial advice for handling such interactions effectively to safeguard your interests.

Tell the Truth and Keep Records

One of the most critical pieces of advice is to always tell the truth. Any false statement, even a minor one, can severely damage your credibility and weaken your case. It’s essential to be honest in all your communications with the insurance adjuster. 

Additionally, meticulous record-keeping is vital. Document all damages and keep track of all related documents, no matter how insignificant they may seem initially. Maintain a diary or journal of all interactions, including the names of people you speak with and the dates of those conversations. This documentation can help substantiate your claims and potentially increase the evaluation of your case.

Medical Records and Doctor Visits

If you have sustained injuries from a dog bite, it's important to diligently track your medical visits and the time you miss from work. Keep all doctors' notes for missed work and records of medical appointments. Carefully review any medical bills and explanation of benefits forms from your health insurance provider. These documents are crucial as the insurance company will base its settlement offer on this information.

When visiting medical professionals, be thorough in describing your injuries and complaints. Failing to report all symptoms can result in inadequate treatment and may lead the insurance company to argue that any delayed symptoms are unrelated to the incident. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary if your condition persists. Neglecting to see a doctor regularly may be construed as evidence of recovery, potentially affecting your case negatively.

Dealing With the Insurance Adjuster

Insurance adjusters are trained professionals skilled in negotiating settlements to benefit their employer. When speaking with an adjuster, be cautious and deliberate in your responses, as anything you say can be used against you. To level the playing field, consider hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer, particularly one familiar with dog bite cases.

Adjusters might offer a quick settlement to resolve the claim expediently. However, accepting such an offer and signing a release form can make it difficult to renegotiate later. It's often advisable to consult a personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement offer in dog bite cases.

Preventing Dog Bite Injuries

Understanding dog behavior and body language can help prevent dog bite incidents. Recognizing signs of discomfort or aggression, such as a tensed body, stiff tail, flattened ears, bared teeth, backing away, or an intense stare, can help you avoid potentially dangerous encounters.

Teach children how to approach dogs safely. Kids should be taught to avoid pulling on dogs' ears, hugging and kissing them, teasing them, or disturbing them while they are eating, playing, or sleeping. Instead, encourage children to let dogs smell them first and approach at their own pace, and to pet dogs gently on their necks and chests.

Avoid engaging dogs in teasing or aggressive games like tug-of-war or wrestling, which can lead to accidental bites. Always respect a dog’s space, particularly if the dog is in its own territory. 

Legal Steps After a Dog Bite

If a dog bite occurs, immediate medical attention is crucial. Following that, there are several important steps to take:
- Contact local authorities if the dog poses an ongoing threat.
- Gather information from the dog's owner about rabies vaccinations.
- Consult a personal injury law firm experienced in handling dog bite cases.

Treatment for Deep Dog Bites

Deep dog bites may require medical interventions such as stitches or staples. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs annually, with a significant portion requiring medical attention and even reconstructive surgery.

Deep dog bite wounds carry risks such as infection, scarring, and damage to muscles or tendons. Emotional trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder, is also common following a dog attack. Proper wound care, following medical advice, and taking prescribed medications are essential steps in recovery.

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.