Rock Rapids Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Dog bite injury lawyers become crucial allies for those injured by dogs. Their expertise in animal-related legal matters allows them to effectively handle liability and compensation complexities, securing justice and proper aid.

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

Dog bite incidents can be traumatic and dealing with the aftermath, especially when it comes to insurance claims, can add to the stress. Handling conversations with insurance adjusters requires careful navigation to avoid pitfalls that could affect your compensation. Here's what you should and shouldn’t do when dealing with an insurance adjuster after a dog bite or attack.

Tell the Truth and Keep Records

When speaking with an insurance adjuster, honesty is crucial. Anything you say can be used against you, so it's essential to be truthful to maintain your credibility. Document all damages meticulously, keeping track of any documents, photos, and communications related to the incident. Maintaining a diary or journal of conversations and timelines can help support your claim and ensure accuracy when recalling events.

Medical Records and Doctor Visits

If you've sustained injuries, it's important to keep thorough records of your medical visits, treatments, and any time missed from work. Ensure you tell your doctors about all your injuries and symptoms immediately. Delayed reporting of symptoms can lead insurance companies to argue that these issues are unrelated to the incident, potentially reducing your settlement. Regular follow-ups with your doctors are also critical to demonstrate ongoing issues and avoid assumptions of full recovery by the insurance company.

Dealing With the Insurance Adjuster

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize the payout on claims. They use specific techniques to try to settle cases quickly and for as little money as possible. Remember, the adjuster is not your ally; their goal is to protect the interests of the insurance company. Consider consulting an experienced personal injury attorney, especially in cases involving significant injuries from dog bites or attacks. 

Offers and Settlements

Be cautious of early settlement offers. Adjusters often propose quick settlements for a few thousand dollars, hoping you'll accept without fully understanding the extent of your injuries or damages. Once you accept and sign a release form, it becomes extremely difficult to seek additional compensation later. For property damage claims, you might handle things on your own, but for personal injury claims, having an attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Rabies and Medical Concerns

Rabies is a serious concern following a dog bite. The virus progresses through four stages: attachment, penetration, replication, and budding. If untreated, it can lead to paralysis, coma, and death. Immediate medical attention is essential to treat the virus effectively. Thoroughly cleaning the bite area and seeking prompt medical care can prevent severe consequences.

Immediate Actions After a Dog Bite

In the event of a dog bite, the first step is to call 911. Ensure the police and medical personnel are dispatched to the scene. Identifying the dog and its owner is crucial, especially to ascertain the dog's rabies vaccination status. If the dog or its owner cannot be located, you may have to undergo a series of rabies shots. The police will help track down the dog owner and verify vaccination records to determine the necessity of rabies shots.

Medical Treatment and Psychological Care

Dog bite injuries can necessitate antibiotics, stitches, and even scar revision surgeries. Beyond the physical impact, the emotional trauma from a dog attack can be significant, requiring mental health counseling. Early intervention is important for treating both physical and psychological scars. If physical scarring persists, consult a plastic surgeon for potential revision procedures.

Legal Steps and Liability

Iowa follows a strict liability rule for dog bites, meaning the dog owner is usually responsible for damages caused by their dog. Identifying the owner promptly is crucial. If the dog owner has insurance, their policy should cover your claim. However, be cautious when dealing with the insurance adjuster and consider speaking to an attorney before providing any recorded statements. An experienced dog bite attorney can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, and help you avoid costly mistakes.

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.