Q: My landlords dog attacked me (5 bites) as I entered the backyard of our house. Went to hospital for treatment. Now what?
Went to hospital immediately. Got iv antibiotics. I have been taking photos of injuries and progress. Wounds still swollen and bleeding. Landlord fully insured and cooperating. Her dog breed is covered. Landlord also lives on property (duplex) I definitely don't want to sue and I will not sue for any money out of her pocket. Not totally aware of insurance logistics or if I need to file a claim myself etc. A claim as already been filed by her and her insurance company has reached out. I'm now looking around seeing if it would be worth it for someone to take me on contingency. Just taking precautions as bills from hospital, medication and follow ups will surely add up. Thank you
A: You should speak to an attorney before you speak to the landlord's insurance company. It will try to get you to describe your injuries and minimize your pain. It will try to get you to settle for pennies on the dollar before you even know the extent of your scarring and before your medial treatment is complete. Call a knowledgeable attorney, please.
A:
More information is needed to fully understand the facts and to give an accurate answer.
However, you are always best advised to retain a LOCAL lawyer in case you are charged or arrested. In other words, you do not hire an LA lawyer for a case in Palm Springs or OC and visa versa....and if you cannot afford a lawyer the court will appoint one for you.
It's also important to not talk about this case to anyone except your attorney. Please remember anything you say herein, is discoverable and can and will be used against you.
The problem with talking to an insurance adjuster on an accident case, is that they often misunderstand what you said or they do not write down everything.
Often it is what THEY THOUGHT THEY HEARD YOU SAY that hurts you. You never want to admit to anything.
You should consider retaining a lawyer and then remain quiet and let the lawyer be the strawman and take the heat.
In other words, you would be happy to talk to the insurance co, but your lawyer has ordered you “not to talk without his permission”.
You then suggest they talk to your lawyer for permission for you to talk with them.
I never let my clients talk to anyone.......call me dale gribow 760 837 7500/dale@dalegribowlaw.com and i will
give you names of lawyers in your city.
A: Also, take photos of your injuries as you recuperate.
A:
You should consult with a personal injury attorney before giving any statements to the homeowners insurance company. Although it sounds like there is coverage a lot of homeowner policies have exclusions for certain breeds of dogs.
Your attorney will also need more information about your status as a tenant. One question might be: Do you live on the landlord’s property?
A:
Agreed Take Photos, and contact an attorney for personal injury in your area. The consult is free, talk to a few attorneys.
Good Luck.
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