Animal bites can occur when you least expect them and often happen unprovoked. Interacting with dogs is a common occurrence, like when you’re at the park, taking a walk around the neighborhood, or even when an unleashed dog approaches you.
Being bitten by an animal – like a dog – can be a traumatic experience. Between the shock and the pain, it’s easy to panic and feel unsure of what to do next. This can often lead to animal bite victims making costly mistakes that can weaken their legal position, impacting and delaying recovery, both physically and financially.
Illinois residents should be aware of the common costly legal mistakes to avoid after being bitten by an animal. That’s why it’s crucial to have a skilled attorney on your side, like our team at Spiros Law, to guide you through the complicated legal process and insurance proceedings.
Injured By an Animal Bite? Five Mistakes You Want to Avoid
Not Seeking Medical Help Immediately
Even if you believe your bite may not be that serious, delaying seeing a medical professional can impact your claim. An animal bite can carry invisible risks, such as rabies, nerve injury, or infection. Seeing a doctor about your bite can strengthen your claim and provide evidence for the severity of your injury. Without this evidence, your insurance company may argue that your injury isn’t as serious as you’re claiming and may even question the validity of your claim.
Failing to Report the Incident to Local Authorities
Reporting the incident to your local authorities is the first piece of evidence needed to submit a claim. We understand that reporting an animal bite may feel daunting or that the animal’s owner may ask you to refrain from reporting it. However, failing to notify local law enforcement may make it harder to prove your incident.
Leaving the Scene Without Photo Evidence
The shock and the pain you experience after fighting off a dog can make it easy to forget to document the scene and your injuries. In the event of an animal bite, visual evidence is key, showing your legal counsel and the insurance company exactly how severe your injuries were.
Talking with the Insurance Company
Your insurance company isn’t always on your side. This is why having a skilled animal bite attorney on your case is vital. If you talk to an insurance representative without havging someone who is interested in protecting your rights by your side, the insurance company may attempt to use your words against you, pressuring you into a lower settlement than you deserve. Our team at Spiros Law can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf, handling the complicated process and helping you tell your story.
Waiting to Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
While hiring a personal injury lawyer for an animal bite might seem unnecessary, it can truly make a difference in your recovery. An animal bite attorney can collect evidence, identify fault, and help you seek justice for your injuries. At Spiros Law, we are well-versed in navigating the complexities of animal bite cases, so you can relax and recover while we handle the stress of dealing with the insurance companies.
Choose An Experienced Animal Bite Legal Team
After enduring an animal bite, the steps you take in those first hours and days can make all the difference in your claim. By avoiding common legal mistakes, like delaying medical care, failing to document or report the incident, or speaking to insurance without a lawyer, you can strengthen your case and seek proper justice for your injuries. Justice often comes in the form of compensation, so with Spiros Law personal injury attorneys advocating for you, you can focus on healing while we fight for what you deserve.
Spiros Law has earned this reputation by effectively and aggressively representing our clients. Meet our team and schedule your free consultation.
