Q: my dog bit my downstairs neighbor in our shared backyard. he went to emergency room but refuses to show
he refuses to show me any medical costs, nor proof of any lost wages. he claims he lost his contractor job, but refuses to show me any proof of this. His wound is not very bad (the dog was clearly trying to defend me, not attack him), but he has hired a lawyer. We spoke and agreed informally that Ipay him $5,000, but since then I have been advised that is too much given the circumstances. Someone at the place he claims he was terminated from shared conflicting information as well. I tried to speak with him about it but he refused to negotiate. What options do I have?
A: If you have homeowners insurance or renters insurance, advise them of the claim immediately. You shouldn't pay $5,000 without some kind of evidence. You can probably pay a lawyer for a few hours of time if you want to settle to review everything for you and draw up a settlement agreement and release of claims so you can make sure your neighbor doesn't continue to pursue you for more money in the future.
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