Dog bite cases are common here in Ohio. If someone’s dog bit you, you may be entitled to compensation. Yet, victims of these bites often make critical mistakes that place their legal case in jeopardy.
Below we review five of these common mistakes. If you have any questions, or if you were injured and need help, call a dog bite lawyer at Bressman Law at (614) 538-1116.
Common Mistakes with Dog Bite Cases
- Not seeing a doctor right away: If a dog bit you and you suffered injury, see a doctor immediately. By not seeing a doctor right away, this suggests that perhaps you were not injured to the extent you claim. Seeing a doctor and getting medical records will help establish that you did suffer injuries from the dog bite. In other words, this helps show a link between the bite and your injuries.
- Not reporting the dog bite: Too many times dog bite victims fail to report the incident. They may not want the dog to get into trouble or they may not know how to report it. But the report can provide a crucial piece of evidence that helps you establish your entitlement to compensation for your medical bills and other damages.
When you go to the hospital for your dog bite, the hospital itself will sometimes report the dog bite for you. Ask the hospital if it reported the bite and ask about getting a copy of the report. You can also report the dog bite yourself to the health commissioner in the district where the bite occurred.
- Not collecting key evidence: Dog bite victims have a tendency to not gather key evidence. The evidence you need includes, but is certainly not limited to:
- Names and contact information of witnesses
- Written statements of witnesses
- Photos of the scene and of the dog
- Photos of your wounds
- Information about where you were when the dog bit you
This evidence can help establish your case and, in turn, help you get compensation for your injuries.
- Personally speaking to the insurance adjuster: Some dog bite victims will provide statements to the dog owner’s insurance company shortly after the bite.
Do not fall into this trap.
If you speak to the dog owner’s insurance adjuster, it is important that you do not give a recorded statement. The adjuster is not on your side. If you do provide a statement, the insurance adjuster may look for ways to poke holes in your case and avoid paying you compensation.
- Not retaining a personal injury attorney: Instead of dealing with insurance adjusters yourself, retain an attorney at Bressman Law to speak and correspond with the insurer on your behalf. We will:
- Evaluate your case against relevant dog bite laws in Ohio
- Help you collect the evidence you need
- File your claim with the dog owner’s insurer
- Speak with the insurance adjuster
- Build your case to prove your entitlement to compensation
Call us today at (614) 538-1116 to set up a consultation to review the details of your case.
Call or text (614) 538-1116 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
