Did you ever consider that getting bit by someone else’s dog can constitute a personal injury lawsuit? Whether it is medical bills, pain and suffering, or loss of income, a dog bite can lead to significant financial and emotional consequences, thanks to California’s strict liability dog bite laws.
With the help of a skilled personal injury or wrongful death attorney in Los Angeles, you can navigate the legal process smoothly and negotiate a fair settlement for your injuries. Below, you can find five tips for negotiating a dog settlement
How to Secure a Dog Bite Settlement
Document Everything
A strong personal injury claim hinges on the victim’s ability to document the accident in detail. This means writing down exactly what happened, identifying who was involved, and noting the specific location and time of the incident.
Be sure to take clear photos and videos of the scene, as well as your injuries, ensuring that each image has a timestamp. These visual records can provide crucial evidence of the harm the dog caused.
Additionally, gather all relevant medical records and treatment costs to substantiate the severity of your injuries. This documentation not only strengthens your claim but also helps Los Angeles personal injury attorneys negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Seek Medical Attention
We highly suggest seeking immediate medical care after a dog bite incident to ensure your health and safety. This can help prevent infections and other complications, which can be especially important in bite cases where the risk of infection is high.
Additionally, keep your medical records and treatment costs handy because they can strengthen your case down the line.
Calculate Damages
Consider all potential damages, including medical expenses, treatment costs, and lost wages, to ensure you receive fair compensation. Remember to include emotional distress, as dog bites can lead to anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
Documenting these psychological impacts can boost your case for compensation. Additionally, thoroughly calculating all of the above factors can present a well-rounded picture of your damages during negotiations, increasing your chances of reaching a fair settlement.
Avoid Early Settlement Offers
Insurance companies are notorious for using tactics to avoid paying fair settlements. They may attempt to offer you a low settlement amount shortly after the incident in hopes of quickly closing the case and moving on. However, be mindful of not getting sucked into their deceitful tactics.
Remember, you have the right to fight for the compensation you deserve, regardless of whether your dog bite injury seems minor or severe. Accepting an early offer could leave you under-compensated, especially if your injuries require more extensive medical treatment or result in long-term consequences.
Consult a Los Angeles Personal Injury Law Firm
If you or a loved one has experienced a dog bite incident, the best personal injury lawyers (Los Angeles) can provide valuable guidance throughout the legal process. They will help you understand your rights, evaluate the details of your case, negotiate a dog bite settlement, and determine the best course of action to pursue compensation.
Schedule a Free Consultation With the Best Personal Injury Attorney in Los Angeles
John J. Perlstein, one of the best Los Angeles personal injury and wrongful death attorneys, has over 25 years of experience securing fair and just outcomes in personal injury cases and wrongful death cases. He will ensure proper negotiation and accurate compensation for victims of dog bite incidents.
You can reach us at (213) 583-5786. Or, fill out the form on our website to schedule a free consultation with a Los Angeles wrongful death lawyer. This consultation will provide you with an opportunity to tell us the details of your case and let us determine how we can help you get the justice you deserve.